Donald L. Roe

Donald L. Roe, 92, of Angola Indiana passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, November 24, 2024.

Donald was born on April 8, 1932, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan to Everett and Irma Roe. He graduated from Sault Ste. Marie High School in 1950. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Business from Albion College in Albion, Michigan in 1954.  While at Albion College, he excelled at both basketball and track. He held the single season scoring record for several years.

Donald also met the love of his life, Diana Beatty, at one of his Sigma Chi Fraternity parties. Donald then enrolled at The University of Michigan Law School. While attending Law School, he was drafted and proudly served in the United States Army. After his time in the service, he returned to The University of Michigan and obtained his Masters of Business Administration.

He married Diana Beatty on June 16, 1956, in Angola, Indiana. They were married for 67 wonderful years. 

Donald was a founding partner at Croxton and Roe Insurance. He served the Insurance needs of Steuben County for over 52 years.

Donald was a member of the Angola United Methodist Church. He was also a past board member of the Metropolitan School District of Steuben County, First National Bank of Angola, Lake James Association, and the Angola Area Chamber of Commerce. He was a past member of the Angola Masonic Lodge, Pokagon Shrine Club, and Scottish Rite of Fort Wayne.

Donald loved the water. His greatest passion was sailing! He and his wife, Diana, took several sailing adventures including sailing the Caribbean Islands and the Great Lakes. They also spent over 30 years every winter in the Keys of Florida. He also sailed on Lake James where he and his family made memories every summer. Donald was a huge supporter of University of Michigan Athletics. He was a long-time season ticket holder of U of M Football. He enjoyed attending games with his brother, son, wife, and grandson. 

Surviving is his son, Philip (Tara) Roe of Lake James, Indiana, four beloved grandchildren Ellen Roe, Kennedy (Dylan) Recht, Karragen Roe, Taegan Roe, and two great grandchildren Aviva and Atlas Recht.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Dr. Robert Roe, his wife, Diana Roe, son, Stephen Beatty Roe, and grandson, Matthew Philip Roe.

There will be a private family service. The family would like to thank Interim Hospice of Ft Wayne for the compassionate care they provided Donald and Diana in their home. And, in honor of Donald’s favorite drink, please enjoy a glass of your preferred Cabernet.

Memorial Donations may be made in Donald’s memory to The Fourever Friends Scholarship at the Steuben County Foundation 1701 N. Wayne St. Angola, Indiana 46703.