Donald Markus

Donald Andrew Markus, known as Don, was born on March 21, 1932, in Kingfisher, Oklahoma. He passed away peacefully on July 29th, 2024.

Don was the last surviving member of St. Gregory's High School, where he graduated in 1950. Following high school, he joined the Navy in 1951, serving as a Radar Equipment Foreman 2nd Class on the USS Lowry during the Korean War. During his service, he had the unique experience of sailing around the world twice.

After completing his military service, Don pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Oklahoma City University in 1959. His professional career began with Champlin Oil Company, which led him from Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Birmingham, Alabama, in 1969.

In 1977, Don transitioned into real estate, starting with Garner and Grabowski in Huffman, Alabama, and eventually moving to Remax Realty, where he dedicated the remainder of his career.

Don was a devout member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Huffman until 2019 when he moved to the Robert L. Howard Veterans Home and began attending Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Pell City, Alabama.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Martha Markus. He is survived by his sons, Andrew (spouse Barbara, grandchildren Patrick, Erin, and Nick) and Matt (spouse Jodi, grandchildren Avery, Emily and Keith), and his daughter, Karen Key (spouse Jason, grandchildren Jared and Jacob).

Don was a devoted husband and father. He cherished his wife Martha, loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, and enjoyed watching classic movies, especially war movies and westerns.

Don's life was a testament to his dedication to his family, his country, and his community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation is set for 2:00 on Thursday, August 1st at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens in Trussville. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Fisher House Foundation to support veteran families in need.