He was born on August 13, 1934 at Rose, Kansas to Harold and Mildred (Hall) Booth. He grew up at Wichita and on a farm northwest of Chanute. He attended country schools. 

He enlisted in the United State Marine Corps on October 6, 1954 until he was discharged in 1957. He was in the Marine Corps Reserves until his honorable discharge on October 6, 1962. While in the Marines, Don received several commendations and the Corporal Rank. He was especially proud of receiving the Good Conduct Medal. He was stationed in California during his service. He also served at the end of the Korean War. 

He and Louise Ritz were united in marriage on October 18, 1958 at the Church of God in Chanute. She survives of the home. They made their home in Erie at the same house for over 50 years. He and Louise just celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary last month. 

Don worked at Coleman Manufacturing while he lived in Wichita and then worked at Burlington Overall Factory in Chanute. He then worked at the Kansas Army Ammunition Plant from where he retired in 1996 after 29 years of service. 

He enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout his life. He attended the Foursquare Church in Parsons and was a member of the TriL Sunday School Class. He was a member of the George L. Hendricks Post No. 102 American Legion of Erie, the Marine Corps League of Independence. He had a special love of history and was an avid reader and enjoyed the Erie City Library. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.