He graduated high school in Hiawatha, Kansas in 1949. After graduation he went to work on the Michigan-Wisconsin pipeline located in Hiawatha and Havensville, Kansas. In 1950 Don joined the United States Navy. In 1951 he was assigned to Helicopter Squad HU1 where he began to travel and was discharged from the Navy in 1954 with the rank of AB3.

After his time in the military he returned to Hiawatha and began working to help build the Kansas Turnpike. He also helped build the Kimberly bridge in Kimberling City, Missouri and the bridge from Lampe, Missouri to Golden, Missouri. In 1958 Don moved to Hermitage, Missouri and worked on the Pomme De Terre Dam until 1962, when he purchased a local tavern. In 1968-1969 he traveled to the state of Nevada where he was a heavy equipment operator for an open-pit gold mine. His most adventurous time was the 22 years he spent sailing with Ameritime Industries on a Merchant ship as the Chief engineer.

Don retired in 1992 and had a 240 acre farm in Osceola, Missouri. He raised cattle and enjoyed the little things on the farm. During the winter months, Don would travel to Arizona, as we know how much he loved to do so.

He is preceded in death by Harold Justice and Octie Coppock, his parents. Don is survived by Leon and Peggy Raymond and sons Rich and Brandon (April) Raymond, many nieces, nephews, and  loyal friends Paul Heathman, Kem Idol, Harvey (Pam) Elliott, and Anna Lee Moore.