Donald A.  Mullins III, of Middlebury, passed away on Friday, February 25, 2022, at his residence. He was born on March 3, 1937, in Lick Fork, VA to the late Otto and Thelma (Layne) Mullins.

Donald is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Lois Mullins; sons, Donald A. Mullins IV, Gery (Rebecca) Mullins, Christopher (Hope Staddon) Mullins, and Geoff (Jaci) Mullins; 11 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; and sister, Betty Kruse. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Freddy and Roger Mullins.

Visitation will take place from 2-4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, at St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church, 411 W Vistula St, Bristol, IN 46507. A rosary will also be held at 4:30 p.m. following the visitation. Mass officiated by Father Bob Van Kempen will take place the following day, March 3, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 3, 2022, at the church with an hour of visitation prior. Military honors will be rendered by the United States Army and DAV Post 19 immediately following the Mass. In accordance with the family's wishes, cremation will follow services. Memorial donations may be given to VA Medical Center, c/o Voluntary Service (135), Canandaigua, New York 14424.

Donald served proudly, in the U.S. Army, Special Forces, for 22 years. His years of service included overseas tours, in Korea and multiple tours in Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Among his many awards and commendations, he received the Silver Star, 2 Bronze Stars w/Combat V Device, and 2 Purple Hearts. He retired in 1975, as a Sergeant First Class, Special Forces Airborne Ranger.

He worked as a truck driver for Hoosier Transports prior to retiring where he towed mobile homes and RV's. Donald married the love of his life, Lois Hug, on December 29, 1969.  He was a devout Catholic and member of St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church when he and his family moved to Elkhart County.

He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, VFW, and the National Rifle Association (NRA).

Anyone who knew Donald, would tell you that he was the most generous, kind, and loving man to ever walk the earth. In his spare time, he loved watching his westerns, especially anything that featured the late great John Wayne.

Donald loved to tend to his garden and would often have his children and grandchildren help him from time to time. Donald was a true gentlemen and taught his sons and grandchildren how to treat others with respect.  Donald loved being "Papa" to all of his grandchildren and had a special soft spot in his heart specifically for his granddaughters.  Donald will be greatly missed by his loving family and many friends.

VA Medical Center
c/o Voluntary Service (135),, Canandaigua NY 14424
Tel: 1-585-393-7757
Web: https://www.volunteer.va.gov/apps/VolunteerNow/