Donald E Gaenge was born to Esther Weismueller Gaenge and Dr. Edwin Gaenge in 1932. He shared his childhood with his loving sister Ruth. He was a graduate of Withrow High School where he earned many athletic honors. He is survived by his wife, Carol, son Gregory and daughter Natalie Cann (Jeff), four grandchildren, Brynn Gaenge, Meredith Gaenge, Parker Cann, Jena Cann, 2 great grandsons and many nieces and nephews.
The foundation for his life was set by his parents, his early experiences with his family church and the Boy Scouts of America. They instilled and strengthened his beliefs in, "Duty, Honor, Country" and "Help other people". He earned the scouts highest honor, Eagle Scout, and went on to become a scoutmaster. His scouting experience helped to prepare him for his call to active duty. He joined the Navy Medical Corps in Pensacola, Florida where he was able to do what he enjoyed, helping other people. Upon returning from active duty, he continued his education at the University of Cincinnati where he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in education. While at UC he met his future wife and lifelong partner Carol working in a science lab. He often said the chemistry formed was the best thing to ever happen to him. Don joined the Princeton City School district where his career spanned over forty years. While at Princeton he became Assistant Superintendent in charge of pupil personnel services after serving as administrative head of Princeton High School. where both Natalie and Gregory attended high school. He earned his Ph. D. from Miami University where he was president of Phi Delta Kappa, a professional organization of educational leaders. He served with many community and charitable organizations. He was a member of the Springdale Board of Health, Springdale Rotary Club and the Princeton Scholarship Board. While at Princeton he was awarded into the Outward-Bound Training Program in North Carolina. Forty years later, Don retired in 1997. He and Carol built a home and moved to Warren County. He served as an elder of Grace Community Presbyterian Church and a commissioner with the Presbytery of Cincinnati. He was also a member of the Lebanon Rotary Club and Countryside YMCA. At Countryside YMCA he followed his lifelong passion for working out and running. Upon his death Don was a member of Sycamore Presbyterian Church.

A private graveside service was held in his honor. A memorial service is scheduled to take place on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 11 AM at Sycamore Presbyterian Church, located at 11800 Mason Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249. Memorial donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929 or to Neediest Kids of All, PO box 636666, Cincinnati, OH 45263.