Donald L. Best, age 72 of Staunton, passed away on Monday, May 8, 2023, at St. Francis Hosptial in Litchfield. He was born on Sunday, April 1, 1951, in Staunton.
Don was the son of Kenneth and Elizabeth (Frame) Best. He was married to Linda Hainaut on November 6, 1971, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton.
Don graduated from Staunton High School with the class of 1969. He loved to travel and loved watching his grandkids play sports. He enjoyed cooking and was known for his legendary breakfasts. Don was so smart…a trivia genius! He was also considered a “jack of all trades”!
Don worked as a Coal Miner with Monterey Coal Co. #1 at Gillespie for over 30 years. He was a member of the United Mine Workers Local #1613 and was also a member of the Mine Rescue Team. Don was a member of the St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton.
Don is survived by his wife, Linda Best of Staunton; four children, Greg (Sarah) Best of Staunton, Jeannie (Kevin) Hemken of Edwardsville, Brad (Keli) Best of Columbia, MO, and Janey (Joe) Monolo of Staunton; 10 grandchildren, Matt Best, Ryan Best, Nic Hemken, Sydney Hemken, Sam Best, Alec Best, Adriana Monolo, Liam Best, Hudson Monolo, and Kai Monolo; brother, Randy Best of Idaho; granddogs, Aspen and Copper; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Kenny, Alan, Brian, and Russel Best; sister, Janet Best; and niece, Abby Best.
Friends by call on Friday, May 12, 2023, from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM at the St. Michael’s Catholic Church located at 415 E Main Street in Staunton, IL 62088. A funeral mass for Donald Best will be held on Friday, May 12, 2023, at 11:00 AM at the St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Staunton with the Very Rev. Fr. Thomas Hagstrom officiating.
Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery near Livingston.
Memorial Contributions in memory of Donald Best can be made to the St. Michael’s Catholic Church, the Staunton Education Foundation, or to the Staunton Sports Boosters.
The Lesicko Funeral Home of Livingston, IL and the Williamson Funeral Home of Staunton, IL are privileged to take care of the arrangements and services for Donald Best and his Family.