Donald Leroy Gasser, Sr., age 83, of St. Louis, Missouri, formerly of Edwardsville, Illinois, passed away at his home on Sunday, December 4, 2016, with his loving family by his side. Don was born on July 15, 1933 in Knox, Indiana, a son of the late William and Elouise (Eskridge) Gasser. Don was a United States Navy veteran who proudly served his country. On October 2, 1955, Don married Marva Kay Hayes in Decatur, Illinois, the love of his life. Don was always active with the Church of Christ where the family lived.He started his career as a television repairman for Sears. Don went to work for Essex Cable and during his career he spent two years in China in the 1980's for Essex. Don retired from Essex after thirty years of dedicated service.Don enjoyed traveling, gardening, cooking, camping and playing golf.His greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially with his grandchildren, whom he adored. Don loved life, he loved to laugh, but most of all he loved his family. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his brother, James Gasser. He is survived by his devoted wife of sixty-one years, Marva Kay Gasser of St. Louis; loving sons, Donald Leroy (Myra) Gasser Jr. and Timothy (Glynda) Gasser; proud grandfather to Nathan (Phanessa) Gasser, Krysta Lynn (Joseph) Rutledge, Karley Ann Gasser and Ally Rae Gasser; extended family and many dear friends. Visitation will be held 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 8, 2016 at Irwin Chapel, 591 Glen Crossing Road, Glen Carbon, Illinois. In celebration of his life, funeral services will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, December 9, 2016 at Irwin Chapel, Glen Carbon, IL, with Pastor Brian Magnuson officiating. Graveside services will be held at 12:00 noon at the Myers Cemetery in Herrick, Illinois. Memorial donations may be given to the children's ministry at Vaughn Hill Church of Christ, 662 S. Bellwood, East Alton, Illinois 62024 and donations may be accepted at the funeral home. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.