Donald L. Slorp

SLORP, Donald L, age 82

Life is filled with many twists and turns, trials and tribulations.  Donnie’s life was no exception.  He faced challenges beginning as a toddler when Donnie, his older brother (Conrad), and their younger sister, Carole were placed in an orphanage for many years.  Due to the help of Aunt Ruth and Conrad’s love and determination, Conrad was able to begin working at a young age allowing him the opportunity to make a better life for himself and Donnie, which resulted in Conrad getting an apartment that he and Donnie shared.  Due to the help of Aunt Ruth and Conrad’s love, selfless acts, and support made it possible for Donnie to graduate from Fairview High School in Dayton, Ohio.

Donnie’s professional life was multi-faceted and after finding success in a career path, he often left to begin a new adventure.  Donnie started his professional working life at NCR.  After leaving NCR, he entered the printing-press profession where he found success operating and maintaining a five-color press.

While working as a printer, he discovered the hobby of woodworking which turned into a side business creating wall décor.  With the help of his family and his drive and determination, he moved on to creating doll-houses and became known as the “Doll-House Man” in the Dayton area.  He was interviewed by several journalists and was featured in newspapers and magazines.

As he entered middle-age, he found himself being drawn to the outdoors (and wanting to get his hands dirty).  He started a landscaping business offering grass cutting to help his kids learn life’s lessons, which quickly grew into a more extensive landscaping business.  With the help of his family, this business grew and led him to designing and landscaping residential properties and businesses. One of his largest accounts was completing landscaping at the Mall at Fairfield Commons.

In his free-time, Donnie enjoyed spending time with his kids and being outdoors.  He coached his twins’ little-league baseball teams, spent time with them at Sherwood Forest Swim Club, and went on weekend camping and hunting trips.

Donnie married Deanna Barker-Slorp (deceased), and had twins, Darren and Karen.  Later, he married Patsy Knopp-Slorp who had a daughter, Lisa Knopp (deceased).  Patsy and Donald share a daughter, Sara Slorp-Arthur.  In all, Donald, Deanna, and Patsy loved, raised, and guided four children.

During his retired years, Donnie enjoyed the company of and the travel companionship of Carolyn Halter, who was both a friend and caretaker to him, for which his family is very grateful.  In his final years, Donnie was lovingly cared for by his son (Darren) and his son’s partner, Amy.