Mr. Donald W. "Red" Applebey

Mr. Donald W. “Red” Applebey 88, of Galesburg, Illinois died 7:21 p.m. Thursday, June 21, 2018 at Marigold Health Care Center, Galesburg. 

Donald was born March 23, 1930 in Galesburg, the son of Coleman Applebey and Estellene Paulsgrove Applebey.  He married Roberta Garrett April 8, 1951.  She preceded him in death December 11, 1981.  He later married Marguerite Higbee December 28, 1984 in Galesburg.  She preceded him in death May 20, 2005. 

He is survived by four daughters, Jeannie (and Michael) Johnson of Galesburg, Cathy McGill of Galesburg, Judy Applebey of Galesburg and Cheryl Nelson of Naples, Florida; 11 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and four step children, Gary Higbee, Roger Higbee, Jean Lawrence and Jan Lawrence.  He is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, three sisters and a step daughter, Jolen Higbee. 

Donald was raised in Galesburg and attended Galesburg High School, graduating in 1950.  He moved to Cameron in 1988.  He spent 43 years as a Carman for the CB&Q, Burlington Northern Railroad before retiring in 1992.  He worked on many train wrecks in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin as a ground man.  He was the operator of a 250 ton wrecker, and the 150 ton wrecker crane, “Big Hook”.  He was a member of the NRA and ISRA.  He was a member of the Cameron Christian Church.  He loved hunting, fishing and working in his wood shop.  Later in life, he enjoyed putting together 1,000 piece or larger puzzles of trains.  He would glue the pieces together then make a beautiful frame for each one.  He made over 50 creations of the framed puzzles.  

Cremation will be accorded per Donald’s wishes.  No services are planned at this time.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.

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