Baptized into the hope of Christ’s Resurrection and surrounded by family, Don passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, 2025.
Loving husband of Janet L. Lauer (nee Dinan) of 63 years; beloved father of Teresa (Doug) Darr and Stephen (Jadee) Lauer; dearest grandfather of Jason and Jenna Darr, Paige and Hanna Lauer; dear brother of Raymond (Beverly) and the late Robert (Penny) Lauer; brother-in-law of Judy (Cletus) Dumstorff and the late Gilbert (survived by Jeanelle) and Robert Dinan; our dear uncle, cousin and friend of many.
Don was a proud member of Local 562 and a 70-year member of the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters. He served as a Journeyman Plumber, a UA Instructor, a Business Representative, as well as other various office positions within the plumbers local. If you ever had the pleasure of riding in a car with him, you were informed of each building you passed where he did the plumbing.
After retirement, Don enjoyed emailing with the family and friends throughout the country and became skilled in photo editing, sharing his creations with many. He was active and supportive in all events involving his children and grandchildren. He had a great sense of humor and was able to make friends in any room he entered.
Don generously donated his body to St. Louis University School of Medicine.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Special Olympics of Missouri, 305 Special Olympics Dr. Jefferson City, MO 65101 and/or Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital, c/o Organ Transplant Fund, 1001 Highlands Plaza Dr. West, Suite 140, St. Louis, MO 63110.
Memorial visitation Wednesday, October 8, 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL, 10151 Gravois Rd. Memorial Mass Thursday, October 9, 10:00 a.m. at St. Simon Catholic Church, 11011 Mueller Rd.
Jan, you and your family are in my prayers. I know you and Don mean a lot to my mom. Im glad she has a great group of friends.
Don was one of the best! As a Plumber he’s was great to work with. Always very caring with everyone on the job. As a Business Agent always looking out for Plumbers welfare. As an individual, just a great guy! Jan, you and your family are in our prayers.
Jan and family, sending you all our sympathy. I had so much fun emailing with Don. He was a character! I miss him already.
Don was a friend and will greatly be missed.
My father, Tom Lauer, enjoyed all the emails he received from Don. Dad would share the emails with us. During my fathers’s last years, he shared stories of playing ball, and riding his bike over to see Don and Ray. My prayers are with all of you.
Janet
I’m sorry for your loss, Don was a wonderful and great guy. I always enjoyed his stories and looked forward to seeing you both at church. Melissa and I will keep you both in our prayers. I’m sorry that we missed his memorial service. Cherish your memories.