Donald Lee Estep, 79, passed away June 3, 2015 at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson, Kansas. He was born January 13, 1936 in Highland, Kansas, the son of William and Muriel Estep. A veteran of the United States Air Force, he retired as a machinist from Eaton Corporation after 35 years of service.

He enjoyed teaching his grandchildren how to fish, appreciate the beauty of the outdoors, and how to ride a bicycle. He enjoyed spending time in his garden, cooking, tending to his flock of geese and his puppies, along with watching the local news multiple times a day. He was known as the "taxi driver" of the family and was always looking for more opportunities to spend time with his granddaughters.

He married Katie Ann Thaxton on February 13, 1971 in Hutchinson, Kansas. She survives. Other survivors include 2 sons, Michael and David (Cherie) Estep; 1 daughter, Kathy (Travis) Gaul; 4 grand daughters, Chelsea, Morgan, Mariah (Chris), and Rebecca (Tim) and 2 great grand daughters, Kaytlin and Ellie. He was preceded in death by his parents, 1 brother, 1 sister and a great grandchild.

A public gathering will be Sunday, June 7, 2015 from 1:00 - 5:00 pm at Old Mission - Heritage Funeral Home, 528 N. Main, Hutchinson, Kansas with the family present from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. A graveside celebration will be held Monday, June 8, 2015 at 10:30 am at Penwell - Gabel Cemetery, Hutchinson, Kansas. In lieu of flowers the family has established a memorial and gifts may be made to Patriot Paws Service Dogs and left in care of the funeral home.

Old Mission - Heritage Funeral Home is in charge of service arrangements.