Donald E. Wirth, 94, of Catawba Island and Columbus, passed away peacefully on Sept. 3 with his beloved wife Anne by his side. After graduation from West High School, he served in a non-combat role in the United States Navy in Germany. Don graduated from The Ohio State University and was employed by Battelle Memorial Institute. He retired from the Polymer, Science & Technology Division after 42 years of service.

He was an articulate master craftsman and upon retirement he built their beautiful home in Oak Harbor. A life-long boater, he and Anne enjoyed many summers aboard their boat, “The Shalimar”, plying the waters of the Lake Erie Islands and Canada.

Don had an incredible depth of intellectual curiosity with just about everything. He was always reading and learning something new. In his early years he enjoyed tennis, golf, fishing and bowling. Many will remember Don for his welcoming and warm smile and the kindness he shared with everyone he met.

Don is survived by his wife, Anne, nephews, Todd (Lisa) Purkey and Robin Robine and very special sisters-in-law, Kay (David) Mettes, Marianne Brooks, Judy Helber and many wonderful nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Lillian Wirth and sisters, Virginia, Jean and Joyce.

A private service for Don was held at Union Cemetery in Columbus. The family suggests memorial contributions to the American Heart Association. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.