Donald Greenlee

Donald W. Greenlee March 3, 1937 – December 5, 2025

Our beloved father and friend, Donald William Greenlee, age 88, of Circleville, passed away peacefully at Wyngate Assisted Living on Friday, December 5, 2025.

A lifelong resident of Circleville, Don’s early years were spent helping in the family grocery store, where he stocked shelves, delivered groceries, and learned the value of service to others. He carried those lessons with him as he graduated from the Circleville High School Class of 1955 and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the Ohio University School of Engineering.

He met the love of his life, Elaine Burkhart, while in high school, beginning their relationship in their sophomore year. Don and Elaine married on July 3, 1958, and shared 61 wonderful years together.

In 1969, Don and Elaine took a leap of faith into entrepreneurship and founded Circle Plastics Products, a company that would shape their lives for decades to come. For more than 36 years, Don poured his heart into growing the business, collaborating with local engineers, manufacturers, and community partners to build a thriving operation rooted in hard work and innovation. His entrepreneurial drive and leadership helped create a business model that stood strong and served Circleville well.

Don’s generosity and commitment to others guided much of his life. He supported the early development of the Emergency Room Department at Berger Hospital, helping to inspire others in the community to join in building a facility that would benefit so many.

Don and Elaine also dedicated over eight years as volunteer medics for the Circleville EMS and spent more than 20 years as active members of the Columbus Power Squadron. Many of their happiest memories were made boating together on their vessel, the Night Owl, exploring Lake Erie as well as all five Great Lakes.

Anyone who encountered Don was sure to hear one of his famous stories. His warm humor, sharp memory, and love for sharing life’s moments made his storytelling one of his most endearing traits.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Denver Greenlee and Helen Greenlee; his brother, Richard Greenlee; and his beloved wife and First Mate, Elaine Greenlee.

He is survived by his three children: • David (Becky) Greenlee, Bradenton, FL • James (Shawntina) Greenlee, Circleville, OH • Elizabeth (Keith) Ellis, Circleville, OH

Grandchildren: Leanne Greenlee, Derek Greenlee, Daniel (Nine) Greenlee, Rachel (Dylan) Unangst, Heather Greenlee, Julian Harrington, Rebecca Karst, and Danny Ellis. Great-grandchildren: Adia and Gavin Karst, and James Greenlee.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 18th, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Wellman Funeral Home, Circleville. A private family Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Circle Area Humane Society and Heritage Nazarene Church.

Online condolences can be made to www.wellmanfuneralhomes.com