NEW PALESTINE
Donald William Ortel, aged 95 years, a resident of New Palestine, Ind. passed away Friday June, 21, 2024 at Springhurst Health Campus, Greenfield. He was born December 24, 1928 in Indianapolis to the late Edward and Bessie (Bruce) Ortel.
Don graduated from New Palestine High School in 1946 and served his country during the Korean War in the US Army from 1951 until 1952. He was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church, a 60+ year member of the New Palestine American Legion Post #182, enjoyed beekeeping and traveling internationally with his former wife Marlis. Don always kept himself busy, he retired from the US Postal Service in New Palestine in 1994, enjoyed being a self-employed farmer and had passion for antique farm equipment.
He is survived by his children, Thomas (Karen Baker) Ortel, Tonia Ortel Chisham, Terry Ortel, grandchildren, Jason Chisham, Justin Chisham, Michael (Meredith) Ortel, Matthew (Meghan) Ortel, Alyssa (Russell) Matthews, great-grandchildren, Steven, Julie, Ava, Otis, Winston and Jack. He was a fond uncle to many nieces, nephews, cousins and loved his former wife’s (Marlis) children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Marlis J. Kottlowski Ortel and the mother of his children, Shirley Blankenbaker, siblings, Elmer, Audrey, Melvin and Thomas.
Visitation will be 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm Sunday June 30, 2024 at Stillinger Family Funeral Home, Hendryx Chapel New Palestine, 19 E. Main Street, New Palestine, IN 46163. Funeral service will 12:00 pm with visitation starting at 10:00 am, Monday July 1, 2024 at Zion Lutheran Church, 6513 W 300 S., New Palestine, Ind. with Pastor Jason Taylor officiating. Burial will follow at the Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be sent to: Zion Lutheran Church or School, 6513 W. 300 S., New Palestine, IN 46163.
Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.stillingerfamily.com
