Donald Turcola

Donna- Donald Turcola, 85, passed away on Thursday, February 14th, 2019 at Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco. Donald was born on February 21, 1933, to Max Turcola and Mildred Leskovac Turcola in Youngstown, Ohio. Donald grew up in McDonald with his three brothers. Donald excelled in sports and academics. He could play all games but was most competitive in basketball, playing throughout high school and during his time in the Army. Donald enlisted in the US Army after graduating from McDonald High School. After being honorably discharged, he earned his Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Milwaukee School of Engineering. He spent his career working as an electrical engineer in the aerospace industry. Donald worked on Apollo's 1-12. Donald was hugely respected in his field and was extremely intelligent. Donald was an avid golfer and enjoyed the game most of his life. He could also beat just about anyone at ping-pong, and he loved to throw darts. Donald was a faithful member of the Cowboy Church at Victoria Palms and an active member of the Weslaco Elk's Lodge. Donald will always be remembered as a generous soul with a great big heart full of love and laughter. He lived life to the fullest and had a great sense of humor. He always had a story to tell and was a joy to be around. Donald is preceded in death by his parents, Max and Mildred Turcola, children, Dan Turcola and Julie Turcola, brothers, George and Steve Turcola. He is survived by his brother, Robert Turcola of Enon Valley, PA, sister in law, Danielle Turcola, nephews, Mark Turcola (Kim), Tom Turcola, Michael Turcola (Christina), Matthew Turcola (Deborah), Max Trkulja (Dijana), Alex Trkulja (Tatiana), niece, Peggy Turcola Gum (Richard), and numerous great-nephews and nieces who adored him. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 19th, from 6-8pm and Wednesday, February 20th, from 11-12:30 pm. Honored military funeral service will be held on Wednesday, at 12:30 pm, with Pastor Chris O'Laughlin, officiating. All services being held at McCaleb Funeral Home chapel. An honored military burial will follow at The Rio Grande Valley State Veteran's Cemetery on February 20th at 2 pm.