Donald Robert Lovett

Donald Robert Lovett, known affectionately as Don, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2023, at the age of 89. Born on February 24, 1934, in Decatur County, Iowa, Don’s remarkable life was characterized by his dedication to his community and a distinguished career in the banking industry.

Don’s extensive work experience included serving as the President and Chairman of Dixon National Bank, where his exceptional leadership skills were recognized and respected. He also held the prestigious position of President of the Illinois Bankers Association and served a four-year term on the American Bankers Association board.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Don had a genuine passion for the betterment of his country, and he proudly served in the United States Army. Throughout his life, he actively participated in various organizations, holding influential positions such as Chairman of the Dixon Industrial Association for twenty-five years, Chairman of the Dixon Water Board for nineteen years, and Chairman of both the Dixon Chamber of Commerce and Dixon United Way. Don also had the distinction of being the first male member of Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital, demonstrating his commitment to the local healthcare system. He was an ordained Presbyterian PCUSA Elder and an active Rotarian since 1960.
Don was a proud alumnus of Duke University, where he earned his B.A. in Economics. His academic achievements laid the foundation for his successful career and shaped his unwavering dedication to excellence.

In recognition of his numerous contributions, the Dixon Chamber of Commerce awarded Don a lifetime achievement award in 1995, honoring his steadfast dedication to the citizens of the Dixon area. Don also retired in 1995 and moved from Dixon, IL to Hendersonville, NC.

Preceding Don in death were his parents, Gladys Ruth Howard and Henry Orison Lovett, his great-grandchildren, Nora and William Richardson, his son Jeffrey Arthur Lovett, his daughter Joan Lovett Tripp, his brothers Howard and Richard Lovett, and his sister Mary Ann Rolfe. His memory will be forever cherished by those he leaves behind.

Don’s memory will forever be cherished by his beloved spouse of 67 years, Carol Pulver Lovett, who stood by his side through all his endeavors. They were married in Ridgewood, NJ on June 9, 1956. He is also survived by his son, Donald Howard Lovett and his wife, Veronica of Dixon, IL, his former daughter-in-law, Lisa Graszer, and son-in-law, Tim Tripp of Hendersonville, NC. Don leaves behind a legacy of love to be carried on by his grandchildren: Heather Lovett and her husband Troy Lenhart of Muncie, IN, Sarah Lovett of Chandler, AZ, Emily Tripp Searcy and her husband John Mark of Chuckey, TN, Jeremy Tripp and his wife Caitlin of Houston, TX, Cameron Tripp of Madison, WI, Jordan Tripp and his wife Jennifer Santos of Denver, CO, Samantha Oeinck and her husband Jesse of Chicago, IL, Taylor Henson and her husband Ryan of Dixon, IL, Dawson Lovett of Dixon, IL, and Daniela Lovett, also of Dixon, IL. Don was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren and is survived by his sister, Ruth McLuckie of Seattle, WA.

A memorial service to honor Don’s life will be held at First Presbyterian Church Hendersonville on Friday, October 20, 2023 at one o’clock in the afternoon. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Blue Ridge Humane Society at 14 Towne Place Drive, Suite 130, Hendersonville, NC 28792, or the Black Mountain Home for Children at 80 Lake Eden Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711.

Donald Robert Lovett touched the lives of countless individuals throughout his lifetime, leaving an indelible mark on his community. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, profound influence, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of those around him. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire us all.