Donald Lee Bivens Jr., 77, of Illiopolis, passed away on September 27, 2024, with his children by his side. Don fought courageously through many health struggles over the last decade. He was the beloved husband of Sue (Quigley), with whom he was blessed to spend the last 35 years together.
Born in 1947 in Decatur, Illinois, he was the son of Donald Bivens Sr. and Margaret (Mehsling) Bivens. After graduating from MacArthur High School, he joined the U.S. Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in the 87th Combat Engineering Company. As a proud military veteran, Don enjoyed speaking to fellow veterans about their shared experiences.
Don is remembered for his work at Shur-Co in Decatur, first as a branch manager and then as a regional sales manager, a position which afforded him the opportunity to travel to areas such as Nova Scotia, Oregon, Canada, and Florida. He retired from the company in 2009.
Upon retirement, Don’s love for traveling took him all across the United States and the Caribbean with his dearest Sue, with Vero Beach, Florida, and Branson, Missouri, among his favorite destinations. Camping was also a favorite pastime of Don’s, and he enjoyed relaxing and spending time with his family at various campgrounds throughout the United States. For much of his life, Don also had a passion for antiques, and he was the proud owner of three antique stores in central Illinois. Notably, Don was known by his family as a devout Christian who loved the Lord. His favorite topics for prayer were his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all who were close to his heart.
Don is survived by his wife, Sue; daughters Jennifer Bivens and Catherine Bivens; sons Don (Krista) Bivens and Tim Bivens; stepchildren Janna (Dennis) Drew and Jerry (Amy) Aldridge; 19 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and brother Steve (Ailyn) Bivens.
Don was preceded in death by his parents.
