Donald Z. Horner

Donald Z. Horner, of Goshen, 80, passed away Thursday morning, September 1, 2022 at his home following a short illness.

Donald was born on September 10, 1941, to Curtis & Vera (Bowman) Horner in Johnstown, PA. Donald was reared in a loving family and attended school at Richard Township Schools. More than his studies, he was drawn to music and was a member of the high school band. His director astutely led him to join the Air Force Band after graduating in 1959. Don spent four good years performing and touring with the Air Force Band in Japan. (They had maid service!) After completing his tour of duty, he moved to Elkhart to work for C.G. Conn as a woodwind tester. He learned to build flutes and eventually piccolos which became the mainstay of his life, working at United Musical Instruments of Elkhart which eventually became Conn-Selmer, where he worked until his retirement, in 2007.

Donald met Jan Yoder while they played clarinets together in the Elkhart Municipal Band, and they soon fell in love, and married in 1965.  She survives along with their children, Chris (Michelle) Horner, Chad Horner, & Benjamin (Erica) Horner, many beloved grandchildren, as well as a brother Jerry (Colleen) Horner, Monon, IN.

Donald  was a loving and devoted husband and father. The Horners were members of Elkhart Presbyterian Church.  After retirement, Donald spent many fruitful years doing what needed doing at his home which he helped father-in-law, Ralph Yoder, build in 1967. He grew the best corn, tomatoes, & helped neighbors when they needed instrument repairs. He had an elaborate workshop and could repair anything! He will always be loved, remembered & missed.

Visitation for Donald will be held at Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home on Tuesday, September 13, from 5-7 pm. There will be no funeral service, and Don was cremated according to his wishes.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to Salvation Army, 300 N. Main St. Elkhart, IN or www.salvationarmy.org

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