Robert Clayton Donaldson, 88, died August 23, 2025, at Hutch Health and Rehab, Hutchinson. He was born February 24, 1937, in Mason, MI, to William Henry and Josephine Elsie (Burgess) Donaldson.
Bob attended Mason High School, Mason, MI. He began working as a union organizer for United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) and rose through the ranks retiring, after 35 years, as the Transportation Director for the union. Bob enjoyed fishing at his daughter's house and bowling. He and his wife, Lauralee, loved being “snowbirds”, travelling across the country, especially spending time in Arizona, in their bus during the winter months.
On November 5, 1954, Bob married the love of his life, Lauralee Kay Peabody, in Mason, MI.
He is survived by: his wife of almost 71 years, Lauralee Donaldson of Hutchinson; children, Bobbi Latham of Hutchinson, Barry Donaldson of Linden, VA; grandchildren, Laura Rhea Reeves, Rick Faddish, Brianna Brower, Tracy (Shawn) Simmons, Travis (Debbie) Jones, Courtney (Dustin) Peak; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and childhood friend, Charles Merindorf.
Bob was preceded in death by: his parents; son, Bruce Donaldson; siblings, Delores Bartlett and William “Bill” Donaldson; and son-in-law, Lewis Latham.
Cremation has taken place; no services are planned.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.