Rosewood Heights--Donald Laird, 82, passed away Sunday, June 14, 2026 at Christian Hospital after a long battle with cancer.

Born Sept. 19, 1943 in Alton, he was a son of Logan and Alberta Laird.

He married Jo Ann Ventimiglia Apr. 25, 1964 at St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Wood River.  She survives.

Don worked as a salesman for S & M Graphics. He had a passion for fishing and hunting.  In his later years he enjoyed going to casinos with his wife.  He especially loved his wife's cooking.  He was a longtime member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Bethalto.

In addition to his wife of 62 years, he is survived by his daughter, Debbie (Adam) Witsken of Bethalto; his son, Rick (Tonya) Laird of Plato, MO;  grandchildren, Austin Van Wolput, Regan Tordonato, Dana Henderson, Gavin, Grace, Kaden, and Kolbie Witsken,; great grandchildren, Mia, Mikey, Delilah, Mason, Juniper, Marcilene, and Lexa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Donna; and two brothers, Wes and John.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, June 17 at Paynic Home for Funerals.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, June 18 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church.  Burial will follow at Woodland Hill Cemetery in East Alton.

Memorials may be made to Our Lady Queen of Peace for masses.

An online guestbook is available at www.paynicfh.com