Donald Eugene Pequignot Sr., 76, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully at his home on Saturday, October 4, 2025.

Born August 9, 1949, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was the son of the late Richard E. and Irene I. (Grover) Pequignot.  Growing up in Roanoke, the family moved to Big Lake, where he attended Wolf Lake High School.

He joined the U.S. Army, serving until his honorable discharge on July 28, 1971.

In 1969, he went to work for Weatherhead, Columbia City, which later became Dana and then CF Goma.  In 1990, his motorcycle was tragically struck while crossing US 30 by a semi, leaving him paralyzed.  He retired from C.F. Goma in 1999.

On August 9, 1997, he married Cheryl S. (Norton) Cassell.  They made their home in Thorncreek Twp., Whitley County.

Don enjoyed boating, fishing, and spending time outdoors. He owned a 1939 Ford Coupe street rod, that he loved taking to area car shows.  He especially loved attending the annual Ducktail Rod and Custom Show in Gas City.  He was an avid pool player, and a fan of the Indianapolis Colts and Indiana Fever.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryl; his children, Karen (Tony) Agriesti of Mechanicsburg, OH, Tonia (Todd) Trammel of Fort Wayne, Donald (Andrea) Pequignot, Jr. of Columbia City, and Mark Pequignot of Riddle, OR; a stepson Rusty (Angie) Cassell of Churubusco; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a brother, Danny Pequignot of Big Lake and a sister, Kathleen (John) VanHouten of Columbia City.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Irene Pequignot, a sister , Kathryn Pequignot, and a grandson, Ryder Sroufe.

Donald desired to have no services.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.