Donald James Shisler

Donald James Shisler, age 80, of Claremore, passed away on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at his home. He was born on September, 20 1944 in Harvard Illinois to Herbert and Irene (Rhodes) Shisler.

Don graduated with Harvard high school class of 1962, then Don went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force, including a tour in Vietnam. Later he went to work for American Airlines in LA and then Tulsa where he would later retire. While stationed at Luke Air Force base in Glendale, Arizona in 1966, fate led him to Sandy, the love of his life. They married in Avondale, Arizona on November 14, 1970, and later moved to Claremore in 1977, where they built a life filled with love, devotion, family, and cherished moments. He was a man of faith and a member of Cedar Point church.

Don was ornery, but fiercely loyal, endlessly entertaining and always unapologetically himself. His heart, though often hidden beneath a gruff exterior, was one of the biggest we’ve ever known. Whether volunteering in his community in many different ways, delivering food to local elementary schools, helping fix a car, giving somebody a ride, or opening their home to others as they often did, Don’s generosity knew no bounds. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand. His presence was a source of joy, strength and unwavering support to many.

Some of Don’s hobbies and passions included: traveling with Sandy most often with kids in tow. Riding his motorcycle (in shorts no matter the season). He enjoyed bonfires, fishing, poker tournaments and Nascar. He loved being at the ball field or gym, always cheering and supporting, whether as a coach or a spectator. His love for the fourth of July was legendary, he always celebrated big and as loud as possible!

Above all else, Don cherished time with his beloved Sandy, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was the Dad/Grandpa who always showed up, no matter what. His family was his world, and he made sure they felt his love every single day.

Don was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Shisler, and sisters, Norma Ammerman and Joanne Cooper.

Don is survived by his wife Sandra Shisler; children, Stacey Shisler, Vicki Shisler (Marcus Adams), Michael Shisler (Becky); grandchildren, Taylor (Megan), Tyson (Lisa), Tori, Karisa Morgan (TJ), Kayla Morrow (Austin), Karly (Diego), Nate, and Kooper; great-grandchildren, Makiyah, Trace, Waylon, Georgie, Hayes, Carter, Tylise, Lux, and Emiliano; and sister, Nancy Webb (Lavern) and countless friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

His life was a testimony to love, generosity and unwavering loyalty. And though he is no longer with us in person, his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.

Rest well, your light will never fade!