Donald W. Genda

Donald W. “Don” Genda, 91, of Frankfort, passed away on Friday, November 11, 2016, at St. Vincent Frankfort Hospital.

He was born May 17, 1925, in Anderson, to Julius and Blanche Ethel Bagley Genda.  On June 5, 1949, he married Thelma Osting; she survives in Frankfort.

After graduation from Anderson High School, he proudly served in the United States Army during World War II at the Battle of the Bulge during five major battles in the European Theatre.  Don and Thelma moved to Frankfort in 1950.  Don worked at Genda Motor Sales Cadillac and Oldsmobile for nine years before starting work at the opening of Peter Paul in 1959 until 1983.  He retired from Zackary Confections on April 1, 1988.  In his “retirement,” Don dedicated his time and energy at Genda Funeral Home; you could always find him cleaning cars or parking them, out and about at the health departments, or picking up donuts. Pop was infamous for his made-up song lyrics and questionable jokes, and above all, hitting the open road, rain or shine. Don attended St. Matthew United Methodist Church and was a member of Frankfort American Legion Post 12 and 40&8.  

In addition to his wife, Don is survived by his children, Becky (Steve) Pedigo, of Spencer, Candy Genda, of Bloomington, and Mark Genda (companion, Erin), of Frankfort; grandchildren, Jill (John) Emmons, Ryan (Kate) Pedigo, Derrick (Lindsay) Potts, and Spenser Potts; great-grandchildren, Matthew, Alyvia, and Rosie; and several nieces and nephews.

Don is preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Paul, Pete, and Bob Genda.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 13, 2016, at Genda Funeral Home in Frankfort, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 14, 2016, at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Bunnell Cemetery.  Memorials in Don’s name may be made to Wesley Manor Employee Appreciation Fund.  Online condolences may be directed to www.gendafuneralhome.com.

For those who knew Don or Pop, honor him by following his mottos, “Have a Coke and a smile” and “See the USA in your Chevrolet.”