Don Baldwin was devoted to God, his family, his work and many good causes. At 90, he was still active in the Baldwin Carpet Flooring America, which he and his wife Joanne founded in 1969. Originally, the shop was located near 46th & Leavenworth, eventually moving to its current location at 9625 Ida St. He’s pictured in the warehouse there.
In 1953, he and Joanne met on a blind date and Don had found the love of his life. They were blessed with six children: Don Jr, David, Teresa, James, Mark, and Mary Susan, 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Don and Joanne traveled the world together, and his favorite place to visit was Las Vegas. He entered many slot tournaments. He loved to play cards, watch game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune, and watch sporting events.
The family is carrying on with the business, and four of their children still work there. Don’s niece Regina Pawol Hicks remembered, “The last time Bill and I were in town, we stopped by the store. Uncle Don gave us a tour of the warehouses. He told us that he walked the warehouses every morning and prayed for his family as he walked. There is some comfort in knowing he is with Jesus and other beloved family members now.” Don was a member of the VFW and the Knights of Columbus. He was an inspiration, mentor and coach to so many. He shared his unconditional love with everyone he encountered. Love and kindness, hard work and faith was his legacy.