In Loving Memory of Captain Don Showalter
Honoring a Life of Service, Courage, and Dedication
With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of one of our own — Captain Don Showalter, who passed away on July 5th following a long and courageous battle stemming from a severe stroke nearly five years ago. His departure has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the entire City of Goshen community.
Don served the Goshen Fire Department with exceptional integrity, devotion, and bravery for an extraordinary 35½ years. He began his career as a young firefighter committed to protecting others, and he rose through the ranks to retire as Captain in 2019, leaving behind a legacy defined by leadership, mentorship, and selfless service.
A Legacy of Leadership and Courage
Captain Showalter wasn’t just a firefighter — he was a pillar of strength and a source of wisdom. His tenure at the Goshen Fire Department was marked by a steadfast commitment to excellence, always prioritizing the well-being of his team and the safety of the community. Whether running into burning buildings or mentoring new recruits, Don embodied the core values of the fire service: duty, honor, courage, and compassion.
As a mentor, Don took countless young firefighters under his wing, helping shape not only their skills but also their character. He led by example, with humility and resolve, teaching those around him that true leadership is about lifting others up, being present in difficult moments, and showing up — day in and day out — with strength and purpose.
His colleagues remember him not only for his tactical expertise and calm under pressure but for his quiet humor, his dedication to the team, and the unwavering sense of family he fostered within the department. His impact went beyond the firehouse; Don made a lasting impression on every life he touched, both on and off duty.
A Life of Quiet Heroism
Don’s courage extended far beyond emergency calls. After suffering a debilitating stroke almost five years ago, he faced his greatest personal challenge with the same resilience and dignity that defined his professional life. His determination, strength, and the love of his family carried him through countless difficult days — a testament to his unshakable spirit and his refusal to be defined by adversity.
Throughout his life, Don Showalter exemplified what it meant to serve with heart, and even in retirement, his presence continued to be felt across the department. He remained a symbol of dedication and perseverance — a hero to many, a friend to all.
Remembering Captain Showalter
We invite the community to join us in honoring the life and legacy of Captain Showalter during the upcoming services:
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Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 15, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and again from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home.
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A memorial service will follow on Wednesday, July 16, at 11:00 a.m., at Brenneman Missionary Church, officiated by Pastor Wesley Miller.
All who knew Don — family, friends, colleagues, and members of the public — are welcome to attend and celebrate a life of selfless service and profound impact.
Holding the Showalter Family in Our Hearts
To Denette and the entire Showalter family, we extend our deepest condolences. We stand with you in mourning the loss of a remarkable man whose courage and kindness shaped an entire community. Don’s memory will forever live on in the stories we share, the lessons he taught, and the strength he showed us all.
Rest in peace, Captain Don Showalter.
Your life was a beacon of service, strength, and love. You may have taken your final call, but your legacy continues to guide us every single day.