Donald Gilbert Troutman

Donald Gilbert Troutman, 88 passed away 23 November, 2020 at Edwards County Hospital. He was born 16 November, 1932 to Edna Lavon and Paul Revere Troutman in Larned Kansas.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Robin Lane Troutman, one daughter, Lori Jo Kelly, and one great grandchild Chance Lane Fox.

He is survived by 2 sisters, Jane Cooper of Burdett, Kansas and Sharon Troutman Newell of Kinsley, Kansas and one brother, Dean Troutman and wife Marta of Mesa Arizona. Don has a surviving daughter, Tammy Habiger and husband Duane of Kinsley, Kansas and a son Scott Troutman and wife Joan of Spring Branch, Texas. He also is survived by 5 Grandchildren, 12 Great Grandchildren, and 3 Great Great Grandchildren.

Don graduated from Kinsley High School and then enlisted in the Army where he spent four years in Alaska. After the Army he hired on with Halliburton and made a career working in the oil field.

During his working years Don acquired an interest in sailboats and spent his free time restoring a boat he had bought. From there he took that boat to lakes where he developed his sailing skills. After he retired he upgraded his sailboat to another one and sailed the Gulf using his knowledge and abilities.

Finally, Don purchased his dream boat and had many adventures at sea. During his travels he came upon a place in Guatemala and decided to settle there for over 15 years, enjoying life living on his boat. Eventually he made the decision to return stateside and moved back to Kinsley.

Don was able to do exactly what he wanted when he retired, which is something not many people get to do. He was blessed, both in his retirement and in his health for many years.

No more a Watch to stand, Old Sailor.
For you are drifting, on an ebbing tide.
Eight Bells, has rung, and last Watch is done. Now, a new berth waits you on the other side.

Your Ship is anchored in God's Harbor.
And your Shipmates, Sailors of the Lord.
There’ll be Shipmates on the deck to greet you. And no boats will have ever sank.

Her Sails will be filled with gentle winds.
Things stowed and Galley stored.
Just waiting, to get underway.
When the last Hand, comes aboard.

Look sharp! That Hand is you, Old Sailor.
And you'll be Sailing out on Heavenly Seas.
May the wind be ever at your back.
Fair weather, and God speed!

Adapted from Richard John Scarr

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