Donn C Conn's Obituary
The family of Donn C. Conn announces with great sadness his passing on February 11, 2024, at the age of 79, in Fort Myers, Florida. Born on May 12, 1944, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Donn lived a life marked by service and dedication.
Donn’s steadfast commitment to his country was exemplified by his honorable service in the US Army Military Police from 1964 to 1966, where he proudly served both in Korea and Homestead, Florida. He was an expert sharpshooter and marksman with a strong interest in fast cars.
In 1966, he met Patricia (Pat), and they married after he graduated from the Florida Highway Patrol Academy in 1967. He embarked on a distinguished career with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) as State Trooper ascending through the ranks from Homicide Investigator to Captain, a reflection of his unwavering integrity and leadership. His tenure as District Commander, overseeing five counties including Lee County, was characterized by his dedication to justice and community safety. He also graduated from the FBI National Academy. After 30 years of service, he retired from FHP as a Major.
He spent a few years selling used cars for local Fort Myers dealerships until he was compelled to go back into law enforcement. He joined the Lee County Sheriff’s Office where he served the local community including Fort Myers Beach and the Civil Division for 10 years until he retired from law enforcement.
Beyond his professional achievements, Donn was an enthusiast of classic muscle cars, dedicating his spare time to the restoration and appreciation of these automotive treasures.
After retirement, Donn and Pat built their dream home in Parrottsville, Tennessee. He enjoyed spending his days working outdoors tending to his property and plentiful garden and his nights reading thriller and detective novels, which provided him with many hours of leisure and reflection.
Donn is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Pat; his devoted daughters, Trisha Davidson (and son-in-law Robert) and Caryn Conn; and his adored grandson, Drew Davidson. He will also be fondly remembered by his brother-in-law, Stephen Roakes, who Donn considered as a brother. Donn was predeceased by his brother, Dale Conn, who he called his best friend, and his parents, Ruth and Carl Conn.
As a man of faith, Donn found spiritual fulfillment and community from helping build a church in Korea to his involvement in Cutler Ridge Baptist Church, McGregor Baptist Church, Cypress Lake Baptist Church, and First Baptist Church of Greeneville, Tennessee.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate the life of Donn C. Conn will be held on March 16, 2024, at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Fort Myers, Florida. The visitation will be from 1:00-3:00 PM and service time will be from 3:00-4:00 PM. The memory of Donn will be cherished in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those he served and who knew him throughout his remarkable life.
For those who wish to join remotely, the family invites you to attend via live stream. The live stream will begin ten minutes before 3PM and you will be able to access. Just click the link below when that time comes to join the live stream
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