Don Gage

Donald William Gage, age 86, of Lamar, passed away Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at his home following a sudden illness.       Don was born January 15, 1925, at Lamar to Amos and Eva (Chaffin) Gage.  After graduating from Lamar High School in the class of 1943 Don enlisted in the U.S. Navy.  He served aboard the USS Montpelier (Mighty Monty) in the pacific theatre, earning 13 battle stars.  Don completed his Navy tour of duty in 1946 and then served in the Missouri National Guard until 1951.  Returning to Lamar, he owned and operated Gage & Son Machine and Welding Shop for many years.       Always active in his community, Don was past post commander, honors team captain, and adjutant  of Lamar VFW Post 3691.  He will be remembered as a tireless worker and record keeper for the post and coordinator of the annual Memorial Day Program.  Don was also a member of American Legion Post 209, Disabled American Veterans, the Montpelier Cruisers, and Lamar First Baptist Church.       On December 21, 1971, at Lamar, Don married Dee Sherwood and she survives of the home.  He is also survived by a son, Jason & Jennifer Gage, Salina, Kansas; four grandchildren, Joshua, Michael, David, and Sarah Grace Gage; and many good friends.   He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Robert Gage.