Donnie Wayne Patsell, of Salem, Virginia, passed away on May 25, 2024, at the age of 77. Born on October 30, 1946, Donnie was a devoted family man, respected businessman, and dedicated community member who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Donnie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, C. Faye Baker Patsell; his parents, Howard "Hard Rock" Lee Patsell and Colleen Rebecca McKee Patsell; his brother, Randy Steven Patsell; nephew, Shane Michael Patsell; and niece, Rhonda Gale Patsell.

He is survived by his daughter, Donna F. Patsell (John Noel); his son, Matthew Wayne Patsell; and his grandchildren, India M. Stover (Allen Thompson), Joshua L. Stover, and Candice J. Stover. Donnie also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Landon E. Thompson, Macie C. Stover, and River Stover. He is also survived by his brothers, Ronnie Patsell (Odessa), Michael "Butch" Patsell (Rhonda), and James Patsell (Ann); along with special friend, Janet Cook and several nieces and nephews.

Donnie began his career with Webb Oil Company, manufacturing fire apparatus, before moving to Ingersoll-Rand, where he spent 32 years. Following the closure of Ingersoll-Rand's Roanoke operations, Donnie founded his own business, Patsell's Excavating. He also served his community as an emergency medical technician with the Catawba-Mason Cove Rescue Squad, working alongside his wife.

During the 1960s to 1980s, Donnie trained thoroughbred racehorses and was a racer himself. He cherished passing on his love of horsemanship, water sports, softball, baseball, and his excavating business to his children and grandchildren. One of his favorite pastimes was riding his grandchildren and great-grandchildren on his heavy machinery.

Donnie was proud to work alongside his son, Matt, in the excavating business. A hardworking man, he always took time to attend his children's, grandchildren's, and great-grandchildren's horse shows, ball games, and school events, never hesitating to lend a hand when needed.

Donnie's legacy of dedication, hard work, and love for his family and community will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be dearly missed.

A Celebration of Donnie's Life will be held in August to be announced at a later date.