Donald E. Kidwiler

Donald Emanuel Kidwiler, 92, of Mechanicsburg, PA, formerly of Durham, NC, passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2024. Born in Bakerton, WV on the 4th of July in 1932, Don was the son of Fairbell Kidwiler and George Cox. At the age of 17, Don joined the Army and fought in the Korean War, earning the Army Occupation Medal (Japan), Korean Service Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars, Driver Badge, National Defense Service Medal, and the UN Service Medal. He was discharged in 1953 with the rank of Sergeant.

After the Army, Don moved to Maryland and was employed by American Airlines at Friendship Airport (BWI). In 1967, he married Marge MacSorley. They relocated twice with the airlines, first to Hawaii, and then to Durham NC. After working for American Airlines for 37 years, Don and Marge retired in Durham. Don was an avid sports fan, especially of Duke Blue Devils basketball. He loved bowling - he and Marge met on the lanes. Don could be found on the golf greens in Durham after retirement, always improving his game. He was a serious gardener and enjoyed planting a large vegetable garden wherever they lived. Don and Marge enjoyed many years of travel before and after retirement. He and Marge were happily married for 52 years.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, Marge, and stepson Frank MacSorley, Jr. He is survived by his stepson Joseph MacSorley (Anne) of Gettysburg, PA, and stepdaughter Sharon Rice (Charles Harpole) of Railroad, PA. He is also survived by 3 granddaughters, Joanna Bibeault (Matthew) of Millersville, MD, Lauren MacSorley (Matthew Thomas) of Nederland, CO, and Casey Rice of Pikesville, MD. Don has 2 great-grandsons, Max and Jack Bibeault of Millersville, MD. Don’s kindness, good humor and cheerfulness will be greatly missed by his family, neighbors, and friends.

A special thanks to Brookdale Senior Living where Don spent his last 3 years with a caring staff and many friends, and to Residential Hospice, for providing loving attention and care. Don held a deep appreciation for those who attended to all his needs, and we extend a heartfelt Thank you.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial gathering at Singleton Funeral & Cremation Services, 1 2nd Avenue, S.W., Glen Burnie, MD 21061 on Saturday, September 14th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Residential Healthcare, 100 Sterling Parkway, Suite 110, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050, in Don’s name.