Donald E. McKinney Sr. passed away at 7:50 p.m. Sunday, December 26, 2010, at Deaconess Hospital in Hospice.

Don was born on June 6, 1920, to Lillian and Donald McKinney in Evansville, Ind. He attended local schools and graduated from Bosse High School where he excelled in baseball, football, basketball, and track.

During WWII, Don was a pilot in the U.S. Air Force. He received his training at Washington State University. As an instructor, he taught movie actor Jimmy Stewart how to fly. Don left Evansville for California in 1947 and worked as an insurance investigator. In 1949 he started the D. E. McKinney Corp. He had various offices in California and employed over 75 employees.

Don had a passion for horses. He purchased a stable of thoroughbreds in which he raced under the colors of lavender and white, his grandfather's stable colors. Don then went on to have 26 wins in his horse racing career. He moved to Lexington, Ky. briefly and then decided to retire and move back to his home town of Evansville, Ind.

Don is survived by his companion and caregiver of 11 years, Gloria J. Williams; son, Donald E. McKinney Jr. and his wife, Kathleen; and a granddaughter.

There will be no visitation or services at Browning Funeral Home, 738 Diamond Avenue, Evansville, IN 47711.

December 28, 2010
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Brigitte Diehl, Cologne,Germnay

December 28, 2010
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Babs McKinney, Sausalito, California

December 29, 2010
Over the years we became good friends and had many wonderful discussions. I will miss you and them.
Burton Drobnis, Sausalito, California

December 29, 2010
Don was a great friend to my parents, Jim and Ruth Myers. Praying for your family.

December 30, 2010
Don was a great friend to my family. My Grandparents Ralph & Rita McReynolds shared many fond memories with him over many years. Don & my father Chris were good friends, and me & my brothers always enjoyed his visits with our family.
From the whole McReynolds & Purdie families we send our deepest condolences for his loss. His honesty, kindness, and great sense of humor will be missed.
Kyler McReynolds, Evansville, Indiana

December 30, 2010
Nothing Beautiful In This World Is Ever Really Lost Those We Cherish Will Always Live On In Memory.
With Deepest Sympathy, Deaconess Home Medical Equipment & Infusion Staff

January 01, 2011
We became friends with Don and Gloria via the Donut Bank. We always enjoyed his wacky sense of humor, and jokes. We were truly blessed to have known Donald.
Bev & Mike Warlick, Evansville, Indiana