Donald George Sambol

Donald George Sambol was born in Kansas City, Kansas on December 20, 1934, to Mary Mildred (Rahija) and Martin Mark Sambol. Don was one of six children. Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Reva Nell Deems, daughter-in-law Julie, brother Richard Martin and sisters Joan Rose and Rita Marie.

Don is survived by his three children, Stacie Anne Hicks (Jim), Stephanie Sambol Carter (Charles), Lance Milan Sambol (Susan); grandchildren Erin Megan Sambol, Casey Hicks, and Andy Hicks; and sisters, Elizabeth Ann and Mary Jean.

Don graduated from Washington High School in Kansas City, Kansas, where he lettered in basketball and golf, and from Kansas State Teachers College of Pittsburg in 1958, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This is where Don met the love of his life, Reva Nell Deems, and they were married on September 13, 1958.

Don embarked upon his Army career after college graduation. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal as a Captain.

While in the Army, Don received his Master of Science Degree with Honors and Distinctions from Kansas State College of Pittsburg, in 1972. Don and Reva moved a total of eighteen times during his Army career, living in Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Indiana, and Korea. Don and Reva learned quickly that the last thing to load on the moving truck were their children’s bikes, so that they could be the first items unloaded at the new location.

Don emerged early as an athlete, exceling in basketball and golf. Don played golf in college and eventually held a scratch handicap. He was a member of an Army golf team that competed in Germany. Later in life, he touted having one of the lowest golf scores at the Ft. Benjamin Harrison course. Don enjoyed several thirty-six holes a day, intense golf trips to Pinehurst, with his son, Lance, and friends. Don remained an avid golfer and enjoyed selecting his foursome for golf outings, with an intent to win. Some might say that he enjoyed the competition.

While in the Army, Don was one of three individuals in his unit who “finished” a 50-mile hike - wearing a full pack. Don taught basic training classes from 1959-1960, to new recruits at Ft. Leonard Wood. Later in his Army career, Don taught physical training classes at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, priding himself on regularly being the last individual remaining doing push-ups. Don continued to do daily push-ups until he was in his early 80’s, when he then transitioned to wall push-ups. His children vividly remember the image of Don running five miles after work, wearing his combat boots. Don’s drive for staying healthy and fit never ended. He was always on the move, exhibiting great energy and driving accomplishment.

Don was a man of strong faith, attending church services weekly and serving as an usher. Reading bible verses was a part of his daily morning routine.

After retiring from the Army as a Lt. Colonel, Don served as the Executive Director of the Central Indiana Regional Blood Center.

Don began a rewarding career as a Legal Administrator in 1987. He worked at Kreig Devault Law Firm for 25 years, enjoying every moment. He stated often that it was a highlight in his life. Don was a purposeful, people-first, leader. He was a member of the Association of Legal Administrators for 25 years, also serving as President.

After years of weekend trips to Southern Indiana and Kentucky, Don and Reva purchased a historic shotgun house in Madison, Indiana. They enjoyed spending time together there, antiquing and visiting local eateries. They made many friends during their travel adventures.

Don fully retired at age 78. His wife, Reva, was ill and Don was her main caregiver until she passed in April of 2020. Don insisted on living in the Independent Living section of each assisted living facility where Reva lived during her progression, so that he could always be just a short walk away and be able to be with her many times throughout each day. He ended every day sitting next to her watching Jeopardy, talking to her, and making sure she was well taken care of. Don was a devoted husband and father and was always there to provide support and encouragement.

Don was best known for his “get-it-done” attitude, huge smile and for being generous with not only his time, but also with his resources. Don impacted the lives of so many people in a positive way. He had an unwavering love not only for his family and friends, but also for his country.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, a tax-exempt 501©(3) nonprofit organization. https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org