Donald L. Doerr, 85, Man of Family, Faith and Service
Donald Louis Doerr of Arnold, Missouri, passed away on December 29, 2025, at the age of 85. He was born on July 21, 1940. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Magdalene Doerr, and his birth mother, Dolores Doerr (née Hensing).
Don shared 64 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Ida Doerr (née Ludwig). Together they built a loving family that was the great joy of his life. He was a devoted father to Bryan Doerr (Lisa), Andrea Cook-Godin (Bertrand), and Jennifer Kammien (Shawn), and a proud grandfather to Justin Godin, who preceded him in death, Samuel Doerr (April), Casey Higgins (John), Joshua Doerr (Alexa), Mykala and Nicholas Cook, and Alexander and Claire Kammien. In recent years, he took special delight in being a great-grandfather to Ellie Doerr and Adeline Higgins.
Don’s siblings include Lenore Miles, (Frank deceased), Michael Doerr (Wendy), and Cheryl Goodman (Larry), James and his wife Charlotte Doerr, both deceased.
Don gave generously of his time and talents to his church. He was a lector, Eucharistic Minister, choir member, Brother Knight of Columbus, and a faithful volunteer in many other parish ministries—always contributing with humility and a willingness to do whatever was needed. Don also proudly served his country in the United States Navy, receiving an honorable discharge in 1961.
He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: time with family and a good round of golf. Among those closest to him, Don was also known for giving affectionate nicknames—one of the many gestures that reflected the bonds he treasured.
Don will be remembered as a man full of life and faith, his steady presence and quiet example touching everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed.
Visitation on Friday January 9 at Kutis South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry Rd, St. Louis, Mo. 63129) from 4:00-7:00 pm. Funeral Mass Saturday January 10, 10:00 am at St. John the Beloved Disciple (4614 Blue Springs Drive, Imperial, Missouri). The interment service will be a private ceremony for family members. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Vision of Peace Hermitages (1000 Abbey Lane in Pevely, Missouri), a Catholic retreat center meaningful to Don through his friendship with Monsignor Mikesch, or to the St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. John the Beloved Disciple.
My deepest condolences to Aunt Ida and family. Don was great man.
So sorry Ida
Dear Ida and family, We are so glad we got to meet Josh’s grandfather and Ellie’s great grandfather at Ellie’s baptism. Josh has always been so proud of you all. You raised a wonderful family. May God comfort you all. The Wilde family.
My deepest condolences to Ida and her family. Don had a generous heart as well as Ida and their family. He was like a brother to my dad Louis Arnold, and treated his community with love and humility, and dedication to the betterment of those around him. He was a living example of the teachings of Christ. Don and his family will always be in our hearts.
Don was a great man! He helped me with a fundraiser at SJBD many years ago. Because of him, it is still going at SJBD. Fabulous Catholic man. ALWAYS ready to help where needed. Beautiful choir voice.
My prayers and condolences to Ida and family. Don was a wonderful man. I was blessed to have known him. Playing golf with Don and my Dad will always live in my heart. The friendship, trips, laughs and love shared by Don and Ida with my parents made their lives richer. I’ll always be grateful on their behalf.
My sincere condolences to you, Ida and your family. My Dad loved Don as a longstanding golf partner and your long friendship with my parents is much appreciated.
Ida, so sorry to hear of Don’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you & your family. Love you. Gail
The live stream turned out wonderful. Bryan, your words described my brother to a tee. It really was beautiful & so heartfelt. Lisa you overcame the beginning & ended with goose bumps all over my arms. You did great & I know for a fact that Don & my dad were belting the song along with you! You could feel the love that was put in his service!