Donald F. Brock, Sr.

Donald F. Brock Sr., 88, of Indianapolis, passed peacefully away surrounded by family, on October 2, 2020. He was born June 17, 1932 in Portageville, Missouri to Samuel F. and Jessie M. Brock.

Though born in Missouri, Don was an Indiana resident for over 80 years. During WWII, he relocated to the Hoosier state with his mother and aunt. His father remained in Missouri for many years; the family was finally reunited after he was able to sell the family farm, equipment, and lastly the farm mules and make his way to Indiana. Don attended George Washington High School until the age of 17. He became ill and was soon diagnosed with tuberculosis; he spent the next year of his life in a facility recovering, never being able to return to school.  At 18, his driving career began; he worked as a valet at what is now known as the Indiana Repertory Theatre and then as a city bus driver for the City of Indianapolis. His true passion for driving began when he took a job with Ellis Trucking, where he was a big rig operator. Ellis was later bought out by Navajo and now operates as ABF Trucking Company. He retired, a Teamster, from ABF in 1994, after 36 dedicated years.

Don met the love of his life, Nellie Mae Noel, in 1951. Nellie babysat for Don’s aunt; he was called in to give them a ride. Though he was 19 and Nellie was only 15, it was love at first sight for the pair. They dated for three years and were married on January 9, 1954. To celebrate, they returned home played cards, laughed, and enjoyed the company of their families. They spent 66 beautiful years together raising their four sons, grandchildren, and showing the world what family is all about.They were the type of couple who defined the saying “bickering like an old married couple” but always had nothing but love for each other.

He was a lifetime member of the West Newton Masonic Lodge, joining on July 4, 1964. He was an avid golfer and belonged to the Winding River Senior Club. He also enjoyed collecting model train sets and could often be found tinkering around with them with his pup, Coco. He’d never turn down an ice-cold Pepsi Cola, a piece of fried chicken, or a good conversation. But mostly, Don loved spending time with his family. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend to all he met. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy and shoes that will never be filled.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Jess; sister, Glenda Kay. Surviving to cherish his memory are wife of, Nellie; sons, Danny (Debbie), Tim, Don (LaDonna), and Steve; sister, DaWanda Williams; grandchildren, Danny Brock Jr., Denice Williams, David Brock, Stephanie McCormick, Miranda French, Kylie Rains, Danielle Dawes, Shannon Brock, and Sam Brock; 18 great-grandchildren and one on the way; one great-great-grandchild; his beloved dog, Coco; as well as a host of extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.

Family and friends are welcome to visit Tuesday, October 6 from 4-8 PM at Eric MD Bell Funeral Home, 220 N Maple St, Pittsboro, IN 46167. Services will take place Wednesday, October 7 at 1 PM at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest at Floral Park Cemetery immediately following services. Please consider making a donation in Don’s memory to St. Jude Children’s hospital.