Donald Woods

NEW MIDDLETOWN - Donald R. Woods, 95, formerly of Boardman, passed away Sept. 26, at his home at Windsor Estates Assisted Living in New Middletown, where he had been a resident since 2017.

He was born March 27, 1923, in Youngstown, to Marie (Park) and Robert Woods.

Don is survived by his wife of 69 years, Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Carson of Boardman, whom he married Sept. 17, 1949; daughter Barbara Ann (Jack) Wollitz of Poland; and granddaughter Betsy Wollitz (Dr. Irfan) Khan of Columbus.

He graduated in 1941 from South High School in Youngstown before enlisting in the U.S. Army. He served in the Pacific during World War II, and saw active duty in the Philippines, New Guinea, and Australia.

Don worked for a short period of time in Washington, D.C., before returning to Youngstown, where he began working for the Hotel Pick Ohio.

Known for his quick sense of humor and engaging charm, Don became, an award-winning packaging sales professional. He had a long career with Packaging Corporation of America, where he was member of the Million Dollar Club. He also worked for Menasha Corp.

Don was an avid golfer and sports fan who also enjoyed beach vacations.

He and Betty were members of Salem Hills Golf Club, and Glen Eagle Golf & Country Club in Naples, Fla. He was club champion at Salem Hills in 1988, and enjoyed opportunities to play golf at Firestone Country Club in Akron, and Pebble Beach in California. He loved the sun, sand, and surf in Naples, Fort Lauderdale,Fla., and Nags Head, N.C.

He was a fan of The Ohio State University’s football team, the Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns. He also loved Boardman High School football and basketball and was active with the Boardman Boosters Club in the 1960s and 1970s. He served a term as president of the Boardman Boosters.

Don and Betty enjoyed great friendships with many people in Youngstown and Naples.

They loved dinner parties and card club evenings with other couples, and traveled with golf friends to out-of-town destinations.

Family and friends may call on Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel, where a service will follow at 11 a.m.