Donald T. Cress, was a long-standing and well-known member of the Pleasant Hill community, where he lived most of his life after being born in Ludlow Falls on March 25, 1928. After a life rich with love, laughter, and countless memories, Don peacefully passed away on January 9, 2026, in Troy, Ohio, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication to his family.

A graduate of Newton High School's class of 1945, Don worked for a few businesses including NCR before moving to Chicago to pursue a certificate in radio and television repair. While in Chicago he realized that he could not live without the woman he left behind. He briefly returned to Pleasant Hill to marry the love of his life, Shirley Bowman who traveled with him back to Chicago while he completed his training.

Don's analytical mind served him well throughout his life, particularly in his long-standing career at the Defense Electronic Supply Center (DESC). Don started at DESC as a radar repair technician, driven by a passion for understanding how things worked. His talents and diligence advanced him to the position of Sr. Financial Analyst, retiring in 1985 after 35 years of devoted service. 

Away from the office, Don could most often be found indulging in his love for sports. An avid fan of the Cincinnati Reds since 1937, his dedication to the team was unwavering, whether they were enjoying a pennant run or a down season, he never missed a game. Don also enjoyed Ohio State University and Bengals football and was a passionate basketball fan. Beyond excitement of the games, Don was both analytical and handy, enjoying home and car projects that allowed him to work with his hands in his own unique way. It was also common to see him using those same skills to help his family and friends whenever they needed something fixed or just helping someone in need.

Family was the cornerstone of Don's world. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Ann (Bowman) Cress, whom he married on May 13, 1950, in his hometown of Pleasant Hill. Also preceding him in death were his parents Edwin and Mabel (Bridenbaugh) Cress, and his siblings Lowell Cress, Kermit Cress, and Lois Kuck along with countless friends. 

Don's generous sprit and handy skills are carried on through his surviving family: his children and their spouses, Deborah and Dr. Mike Young of Boise, Idaho; Patricia and Darrell Sickels of Troy; Jeffrey and Beverly Cress of Dayton; his grandchildren and their spouses, Tara Lee and Brandy Crissey, Jordan and Katy Lee, Seth Sickels, Katelyn Cress, and Lauren Young; and his cherished great-granddaughter, Ellie Thompson. Don's presence will be deeply missed but the memories will be treasured by his family for generations to come. As everyone who knew him would agree, spending time with his grandchildren was always a priority in his life.

Don Cress was the epitome of a life well-lived. His analytical nature, handy skills, and generous heart have left an indelible mark on all who knew him. 

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM Saturday, January 17, at Jackson-Sarver Funeral Home, 1 S. Main Street, Pleasant Hill, with interment following at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9:30-10:30 AM Saturday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pleasant Hill History Center. 

Memories may be shared with the family at www.jackson-sarver.com