Donald Eppinger

Donald L. Eppinger of Titusville, FL, and formerly of Maryville, TN, passed away at home surrounded by his devoted family on Sunday, May 18, 2014, after a long and valiant battle against both multiple sclerosis and congestive heart disease. Don was born July 23, 1942 in New Castle, PA, the only child of Edward L. and Lottie Eppinger, who predeceased him. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Susan Smith Eppinger, who was his high school sweetheart; a son Steven S. Eppinger and wife Jennifer of Mims, FL; and his daughter, Kristen Eppinger Bownas and husband Jonathan of Mims, FL. Also surviving are his three precious granddaughters, Taegan and Paldin Bownas and Sarah Eppinger and a number of extended family members. His oldest son Jeffrey L. Eppinger, predeceased him along with his in-laws, Dr. and Mrs. George Sherman Smith, Franklin, PA, and one brother-in-law, George S. Smith, Jr. Franklin, PA A 1960 graduate of Franklin High School, Franklin, PA and a 1967 graduate of Youngstown University, Don joined the Aluminum Company of America in Pittsburgh, PA working for Alcoa there, St. Paul, MN and Alcoa, TN for almost 30 years, primarily in the sales and administration areas. He also served his country proudly in the USMC Reserves in New Castle, PA for six years. Don was an avid fan of The University of Tennessee VOLS and NASCAR. He also had developed a talent for photography, especially in the Smoky Mountains . However, his greatest passion was his family. He had such deep friendships with people he met over the years through doing cardiac rehabilitation at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville that a number of them drove to visit Don recently, as his health declined. Later this summer, there will be a celebration of his life in his beloved Smoky Mountains. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the New Providence Presbyterian Church, 703 Broadway, Maryville, TN 37801, or to the charity of one's choice . Arrangements by FAMILY owned and operated Atlantic Mortuary & Cremation Service, Rockledge