Donald Recupido, 56, of Elkhart, Indiana, formerly of Argos, Indiana, passed away on June 24th, 2022 in his home with his loving family by his side. He was born and raised in the south suburbs of Chicago, Illinois and moved to Indiana in the early 1990’s.
Don was a man with a heart of gold, always putting others before himself. His infectious smile brightened any room he walked into. He was a gentle spirit, loyal, kind hearted, humble, and genuine. Don always saw the best in people. He was a true friend and confidant who enriched the lives of everyone he met.
Traveling and experiencing cultures different from his own was something Don truly enjoyed. He was incredibly passionate for martial arts, dedicating nearly 40 years of his life to practicing the art. A sensei to many, he was a great leader, mentor, and friend. Don was a fierce warrior and excelled in many different styles of karate. He received his 7th degree black belt, and in 2002 was inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame.
In his down time, Don enjoyed playing his guitar, singing karaoke, attending bonfires, and hanging out with his friends. Don was a loving husband and a dedicated father and grandfather. He loved his family fiercely. He was a family man who will fondly be remembered as always showing his unconditional love. He was also a committed employee with Marshall Electric as a research and development engineer. He was recognized for his hard work and dedication both in the states and overseas. In his younger years, he was a Seabee in the Navy, part of the U.S. Naval Construction Battalion.
On November 23rd, 2019, Don married Jodi. They were deeply in love, inseparable, and always seeking out adventures. She survives along with her son Drew.
Also surviving are children: Amanda (Mandi) Recupido of Fishers, Indiana, Ashley (TJ) Murphy of Carmel, Indiana, Derrick (Jess) Chambers of Noblesville, Indiana, Robbie (Stephanie) Chambers of South Bend, Indiana, Corey Hughes of Knox, Indiana, and Jeffrey Recupido of Rochester, Indiana.
Parents: Donald and Georgiana Recupido of Merrillville, Indiana.
Siblings: Ronald (Donna) Recupido of Matteson, Illinois, William (Jaye) Recupido of Remington, Indiana, Lori (Dave) Gutelius, of Plymouth, Indiana, Vicki (Art) Zieman of Dyer, Indiana, and John (Lisa) Recupido of Crown Point, In. .
Also surviving are six grandchildren plus one on the way, many nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog Hester.
Preceding Don in death,
Grandmothers: Ida Mae Beilke and Susanna Nozar
Grandfathers: Martin Nozar, Joseph Recupido, and Raymond Beilke
As well as many aunts and uncles.
There is not a day that goes by that we won’t miss you. You left a mark on our hearts. We love you.
Family and friends are welcome to Celebrate Don’s life on Saturday, July 16th, at 2:00 p.m. at the Church of the Heartland. 705 East Jefferson Street, Plymouth, Indiana 46563. Meal and fellowship to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Don’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Elkhart Cremation Services has been entrusted with his arrangements.
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