Donald R. Carson, 72, of Shawnee, Kansas, passed away on Monday, November 29, 2021. He was born on April 13, 1949 in Atchison, KS to Clyde and Doris “Maxine” Carson.

Don grew up in Topeka, KS. He attended Topeka West High School, after which he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was awarded many military honors, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his heroic actions in Vietnam. After returning home, he became a Drill Instructor at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. He finished his military career as a recruiter for the Kansas Army National Guard.

Don was an avid military modeler and enjoyed creating dioramas. An expert marksman, he enjoyed target shooting and collecting weapons.

Don is survived by his sons, Michael and Ryan, a daughter, Jenny Bale, and grandchildren, Gloria Carson, Henry, Josette, and Elias Bale. Siblings, David Carson and Jeanne Woodard. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Maxine.

The family will receive guests for a visitation on Friday, December 10th, from 5:00-7:00pm at Penwell Gabel’s Olathe Chapel. A private graveside ceremony will be held at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in Don’s memory be made either to the Wounded Warrior Project or to Prairie Wind Hospice.

Don will be greatly missed and always remembered as a patriot and a U.S. Marine.




To leave a message of condolence for Don's family or to share a special memory of Don, please click the “Share Memories” button above.