Donald B. Kitchen

Donald B. Kitchen, age 80, of Bloomsburg, passed on peacefully to join family & friends in the presence of his Heavenly Father on Thursday, November 14, 2013 at the home he resided for the last 55 years. He battled health issues since an accident in 2005 which left him nearly paralyzed. Donald was born on Monday, December 12, 1932 at the Bloomsburg Hospital, a son of the late Franklin P. and Mame (Ryder) Kitchen. Don spent his young years working on the family farm off Quarry Drive. During his teen years, he worked as a mechanic for two local garages. In 1951, he completed his education after graduating from the Bloomsburg High School. After working at Bird’s garage for two years, he enlisted in the United States Army in early 1953. Don served as a Corporal in the motor pool while serving his country in the 23rd Infantry division of the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Donald served as a Police Officer for the Town of Bloomsburg in late 1950’s & early 1960’s, in addition to working for PL Lawton as a mechanic and truck driver. He helped establish the shipping department at Kawneer, but spent 31 of his working years as a truck driver for the former Bloomsburg Mills, Inc. retiring in 1995. An avid Harley Davidson fan, Don almost always had a motorcycle, and was a member of the Retreads Motorcycle group for years, enjoying many day and weekend trips with his wife and friends. After retirement, he enjoyed his motorcycle, traveling, working on his neighbor’s farm, and spending time with his grandchildren. Donald was a life member of the Bloomsburg Fire Department, the Bloomsburg Fireman’s Relief Association, former member of the Bloomsburg Elks B.P.O.E. #436, the Bloomsburg American Legion Post #273 and the St. Matthew Lutheran Church. Don’s beloved wife of 46 years, Grace C. Weber died in January of 2007. He was also preceded in death by eight brothers: Ray, William, Woodrow, Warren, Jack, Ralph, Fred & Eugene Kitchen, and an infant sister: Getha Kitchen. Survivors include his daughter: Connie Kline, and husband Herb, of Bloomsburg; a granddaughter: Kayla G. McCready of Bloomsburg, a grandson: Cody W. Kline of Danville, two great-grandchildren: Hannah G. and Elijah J. McCready; a brother: Frank Kitchen, of West Palm Beach, FL and a sister: Ruth Roth of Bloomsburg; and several nieces and nephews. A time of Visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, November 18 from 1 to 2 p.m. from the Allen Funeral Home, Inc., 745 Market at Eighth Street, Bloomsburg. Funeral services will also begin on Monday, November 18 at 2 p.m. from the Allen Funeral Home, Inc., Bloomsburg with Lay Minister and family friend, Eileen M. Chapman, officiating. Graveside services where full Military Honors will be held will immediately follow in Lime Ridge. Memorial contributions in Don’s name are suggested to: AGAPE, 19 E. 7th St., Bloomsburg or the Bloomsburg Fire Department., 911 Market St., Bloomsburg.

Donald B. Kitchen

December 12, 1932 - November 14, 2013