Don E. Santee

1929-2025

Don E. Santee, 96, passed away Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025.

Don was born Aug. 1, 1929, in Sebring, Ohio to William Meade Santee and Nora Freda Santee.

Don graduated from Sebring High School and enlisted in the Air Force where he was stationed in England as a carpenter. After earning the rank of staff sergeant, Don left the military and returned to Ohio where he settled in Salem to marry and raise a family.

Don, who was known as “Red” by many, was a successful businessman and entrepreneur. In the late 1950s, he began a construction company, eventually building over 300 homes for families across northeastern Ohio. This led him to begin developing residential and commercial land in Columbiana and Mahoning counties.

He also served as a director of a savings and loan in Leetonia, Ohio and he served several terms as a director on the Columbiana County Port Authority. Don was also a part owner of a Burger Chef restaurant and an Ohio River shipping terminal in East Liverpool, Ohio.

Don never lost the desire to work and make another deal. He continued developing real estate until his death, completing his last sale just a month ago.

Don was a longtime member of the Elks and Masonic Lodges.

Don was the loving father of Jay G. Santee and Teresa of Colorado Springs, Colo. and Drew E. Santee and Jennifer of Greensboro, Ga. Don also leaves behind four granddaughters and seven great-grandchildren, as well as two nieces and a longtime friend Mary Bowser.

Don was proceeded in death by his parents and his sister, Joyce Ellen Santee Taute.

In lieu of flowers or monetary donations, please know that family would be most pleased if you would buy an ice cream cone for a child in memory of Don.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 6 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025 at Stark Memorial Funeral Home located at 1014 E. State St., Salem. Funeral service will begin promptly at 6 p.m., following the visitation. Burial will take place at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025 at Grandview Cemetery of Sebring. Please meet at the cemetery.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Don’s obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

8/30/25