Donald “Don” Harry English, 65, passed away June 10, 2023. He leaves behind his wife of 42 years, Theresa Jean English, son, Bryan Thomas English, brother, Stephen English, sister Kathy Jackson, and his fur buddy, Bentley. 

Don was born on March 23, 1958, in Billings, MT, to Thomas Wayne English, and Norma Lee English, who both preceded him in death. Six months after his birth, the family relocated to Colorado Springs, where he would grow up and spend the rest of his life, becoming an honorary Colorado native.

He spent his career in a variety of fields, excelling at them all. He worked at Cave of the Winds, Climax mine, 12 years as a professional painter, manager of J.J’s Tropaquatics, and retired from Colorado Springs Utilities in 2018 after 20 years as a meter reader and utility field collector.

He was a skilled craftsman. Whatever hobby, project or endeavor he undertook, it was done with care, passion and a commitment to excellence, whether it was something around the house or perfecting the family peanut brittle recipe.

Don was a dreamer, always curious about the next adventure. He loved anything outdoors, finding a special connection to nature and the state he called home for nearly 65 years. Ever fascinated with aviation, he obtained his private pilot’s license for single-engine aircraft in the 1980s. Pursuing his passion for hot-air ballooning, he acquired his certification with both private and commercial ratings. For 13 years, Don proudly flew Drifting Spectrum and Acojonante! with his son, friends and family serving as his dedicated crew.

Don was a kind man and never met a stranger or someone he couldn’t strike up a conversation with. More than that, he was a loving and devoted husband and father.

He will be missed, but never forgotten.

All our love, forever. 

At Don’s request, no service will be held. For those of you who had the pleasure of knowing him, the family asks that you keep him in your memories.