Submitted by: Dan Rich

Marion "Wart" Donaldson

Jan. 17, 1924 – Nov. 2001

South Bend Tribune 11/11/2001

Born January 17, 1924, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Flora Crockett and Nathan Donaldson, he was 77 years old. He was born during the depression-era; however, his lifelong accomplishments are exemplary. He retired from the South Bend Post Office as the Manager of Retail Sales in 1986. He graduated from South Bend Central in 1942 and was a star athlete, playing several sports. After graduating, he served in World War II. He was a member of Studebaker's Local Number Five and the Southside Speedboys softball teams. He was also a member of the Polish National Alliance No. 83 Club and the Guys and Dolls Bowling Teams, to name a few. He was a long-time member of the Board of Directors for Logan Parents, a volunteer organization. He was instrumental in bringing the 1987 International Special Olympics to South Bend. He was a strong advocate for people with disabilities. He was instrumental in connecting the Logan Council for the Retarded to the South Bend area-wide community, where he taught everyone a greater appreciation for people who had special needs. In 1973, Wart was one of the co-founders of the South Bend Par Putters. The Par Putters Organization was formed to increase awareness in and participation of Blacks in the game of golf. In addition the Par Putters strive to enhance community involvement by "Putt-ing Kids 1st." He was also a member of Saint Peter's Masonic Lodge Number 31, the American Legion Post 309, and the Breakfast Club.

He is survived by Betty Ford, who has been his love since 1939, and whom he married in March 1944; and his children, Nila Stovall of Washington, D.C., Dane Donaldson of Detroit, Michigan, Teddie Davis of Las Vegas, Nevada, Kay Donaldson of South Bend; and his beloved niece, Cheryl Hayes of South Bend. Also surviving are his grandchildren: Loriann and K. Dane Snowden, Damon, Duane and Dana Donaldson, Johnnie and Chris Lottie, Kelly and Richie Hayes. His only living brother, Anthony "Pete" Donaldson, the Bag Lady, two sons-in-law, one daughter-in-law, one sister-in-law and two brothers-in-law, many nieces and nephews and a host of close personal friends too numerous to mention.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Logan Communities Resources in the name of Wart Donaldson, 1235 North Eddy Street, South Bend, Indiana 46617. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, November 15, 1:00 p.m. at First AME Zion Church, 801 North Eddy Street. The family will receive visitors immediately after the service.