Colonel Donald Gordon Woske

“I am a Conservative, Methodist, NRA Benefactor, Fighter Pilot, Red Neck…. Damn proud of it too”!
A life lived unashamed of his faith, proud of his family and a fighter for this nation, that was Colonel Donald Gordon Woske, 92, who passed away at his home in Valdosta on Monday, February 21, 2022. Don was born in Peoria, Illinois, son of Carl Arthur and Helen Louisa Woske. He spent his life serving and sacrificing for his country in combat in Korea and Vietnam with no accidents, incidents, or damage with the exception of two bullet holes in his planes, one from each war! He flew over 20,000 hours military and civilian in fifty-five different aircraft and received over forty medals, awards, and commendations.
Though aviation was a huge part of Don’s identity he was a Champion wrestler in High School and the Handball and Racket ball Champion on every stateside base where he served. Most of all Don loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, especially the cold, ice fishing and big game hunting. He was a great teacher of safety and fun to his family. His talents were not limited. Don was an artful and skilled wood carver of birds, owls, bears, ducks, and decoys. However, his lifelong hobby was stamp and Christmas Seal collecting. “Christmas Seals are my favorite because of the beautiful snow scenes.”
Don could be tough when he needed to be, but he was always fair. It’s the heart of the man that matters and Don’s heart was filled with love for his family and his faith. For decades he excelled as Pontius Pilate in Park Avenue’s Easter Drama. He was President of the United Methodist Men and famous for their community wide BBQ’s. When the old oak tree by the children’s playground had to be removed, Don salvaged the trunk and carved crosses for Park Avenue’s annual Craft Bazaar. He served on Camp Tygart’s Board, and the Stewardship Committee and the committee to refinish pews and replace the carpet in the Sanctuary of Park Avenue United Methodist Church. He loved his church.
Don’s love for Jesus never diminished, he believed the Promise and never feared death. “It’s the DNA and sacrifice passed down that lasts. It’s the strength and fortitude chosen by a leader like my dad, which gives hope to his family for generations to come!”
Survivors are his wife, Jean “Moosie” Woske, and their children, Steve Woske, Dianne Woske, Chuck (Barbara) Woske, Dan Woske, Tracy (James) Corbett, Rusty Woske; grandchildren, Hunter Corbett and Chloe Harris, Joe Corbett, Willow and Gabby Woske, Lyndsay (Scott) Brown, Kristen (Chas) Henry, Melanie (Trent) Anthony, Lauren (Kevin) Stuer, Candace, Nickolas Woske; great grandchildren, Colton and Caden Brown, Alexis and Gunner Stuer; and a sister, Blanche (Alex) Koplinski. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a son, Robert Woske.
The Woske family will receive friends for visitation at Park Avenue United Methodist Church on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 11:00 a.m., followed by memorial services for Colonel Woske at 12:00 noon. Reverend Jamie Bone and Reverend David Tart will officiate. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Park Avenue United Methodist Church Missions or to the Music Fund. The Carson McLane Funeral Home is serving the Woske family. Condolences may be made online at www.mclanecares.com.