Captain Donald L. Rayhill

Captain Donald L. Rayhill passed away on March 19, 2022.

Born in Washington, Indiana on September 6, 1931 to Harry and Dullie Rayhill.

He loved fishing in White River with his father and cousins, and enjoyed going to his grandfather John Baldwin's farm. Attending Washington High School, he played football and became captain of the Washington Hatchets football team. 

Serving in the US Navy during the Korean War, he was stationed in Hawaii where he became a torpedoman's mate first class and received formal Naval diving training. During his time in Hawaii he discovered a love of deep sea fishing and diving. 

He then attended Louisville University where he continued to play football. Later he joined the merchant marines, working for Mobil Oil. Rising to the rank of Captain of oil tankers, in 1969 he became a Panama Canal pilot. After working in the canal for several years, he then went to work for the Petro Terminal of Panama where he continued until retirement. 

While living in Panama, he pursued his love of fishing on his boat, the Trident, with his family and friends, and remained in Panama until his passing. 

Don is preceded in death by his parents Harry and Dullie, brother James Rayhill and his two sisters Joyce Veitz and Janice Wampold. He is survived by his loving wife Noel Rayhill and his 4 children, Andrew Rayhill (Ivana), Lianne Rayhill LaPlante (Marcel), Donnel Rayhill (Margot) and James Alex Rayhill (Luana); his grandchildren Hannah and Cade Rayhill, Parker and Makaira LaPlante, Belen, Natalia and Evangeline Rayhill along with several nieces and nephews. 

He will always be remembered as a loved, respected and deeply admired father, husband and grandfather. 

Don will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Cemetery of Reeve Township in Cannelburg, IN on Friday July 22, 2022 at 10am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer's Association. 

Arrangements provided by Blake Funeral Home in Loogootee, IN.

Online condolences can be made at www.blakefuneralhomes.com