Donald Lee Overlander

Donald Lee Overlander, of North Manchester, Indiana, passed away on October 6, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was born on March 18, 1940, in Rochester, Indiana, to Jacob and Alice (Bacon) Overlander.

Donald graduated from Akron High School in 1958. After high school, he began a long career as a truck driver, a line of work that reflected the honesty, endurance, and strong work ethic that defined his life. He worked for Swihart Trucking for many years before continuing with Cripe Mobile Home Transport, and he eventually retired from Ground Up Diesel Repair.

On February 21, 1964, Donald married Joyce Jean McCloughan. She preceded him in death on September 22, 2007. Family was at the center of Donald’s life. He had a big heart and would do anything for his children. He took on three children who were not his by birth and loved and treated them as his own, caring for all of his kids equally. Those who knew him will remember him as an honest, hardworking man whose love was shown in steady, practical, and generous ways.

Earlier in life, Donald was a member of the North Manchester Moose Lodge. In his younger years, he enjoyed camping, golfing, hunting, bowling, and traveling to Canada for fishing trips. He was a lover of all animals and found comfort in simple pleasures, including watching western movies and ending the day with NCIS each night.

The loving memory of Donald Overlander will be forever cherished by his children, Mike Swick, Warsaw, Duane Owens, Warsaw, Brenda (Kristian) Gaerte, North Manchester, and Tony (Wendy) Overlander, North Manchester; thirteen grandchildren; twenty-eight great-grandchildren; and twelve great-great-grandchildren. Donald was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joyce Jean Overlander; son, Rick Boardman; and two sisters, Pat Zeyen and Jenet Simpson.

Family and friends may call Sunday, October 11, 2026 from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana. Funeral services will be held Monday, October 12, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. with calling beginning at 9:00 a.m. with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. Burial will be held at Oaklawn Cemetery in North Manchester, Indiana.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Donald Overlander, memorial contributions may be made to the Wabash County Animal Shelter, 810 Manchester Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

The family of Donald Overlander has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.