MANITO ~ Donald “Don” Wayne Elmore, 68, of Manito, passed away at 1:50 a.m. Saturday, May 9, 2026 at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois.
He was born on November 10, 1957 in Joliet to James Watson and Coriene Mae (Walthers) Elmore. His parents; one son, Corey Ryan Crabtree and two brothers, Dean Elmore and Dave Elmore preceded him in death.
Surviving are his children, Jason (Megan) Elmore of Florida, Stacy Allen of Texas, Mishe Elmore of Missouri and Stephanie Duda of Manito; twelve grandchildren; and two brothers, Jeff (Sue) Elmore and Darrell Elmore, both of Florida.
Donald was a veteran of the United States Navy.
Retiring in 2017, he had worked at Weslley Township Garage as a mechanic.
Don had a passion for animals and the outdoors. Working at Big Run Wolf Ranch led to a love and veneration for wolves, bobcats, and other wild animals he would care for. He also had a passion for ham radio where he went by ‘Dino Don”.
A gathering celebrating Don’s life will be held at a later date. Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.
Memorial contributions can be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
To express condolences online, visit Preston-Hanley.com.
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