Donald Bakalar

Donald Bakalar of Columbia, Tennessee passed away on September 20, 2023, at the age of 66. He was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana on June 3, 1957 to Jerry and Betty Bakalar.

He enjoyed golf, bowling, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Debbie Freeman.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory by his wife of 38 years, Brenda Bakalar; His brother Ron (Rita) Bakalar of Fort Wayne, Indiana; His brother-in-law Windy (Debbie) Freeman of New Haven, Indiana; and numerous nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones.

Don was a loving and committed husband, son, uncle and friend.

In 1983, Don joined the U.S. Air Force and served for 23 years as a Precision Measurement Equipment Specialist. He served in the Gulf War and was deployed to Saudi Arabia. He was also stationed at numerous bases around the world, including Italy, Germany, and Korea. He was known for his humor and playfulness, always bringing light to difficult times.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens in Nashville, Tennessee on Monday, October 2, 2023 at 12:30 p.m. Celebration of life to follow at Denese Smith’s home at 112 Bland Drive, Mt. Juliet, Tennessee.

In lieu of flowers donate to The Nashville Rescue Mission and The Wounded Warrior Project.