News Summary
Donnie ‘Don’ Gene Scott, a beloved figure in Sioux Falls, has passed away at the age of 84. Known for his playful nature and deep love for animals, Don exemplified a life of passion through family, chess, and classic cars. His legacy will be honored as the community remembers his warmth and humor. A private family service is planned, with suggestions for honoring his memory through acts of kindness and love for animals.
Sioux Falls, SD – Donnie “Don” Gene Scott, a cherished member of the Sioux Falls community, passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on August 8, 2025, at Avera McKennan Hospital. He succumbed to a series of health challenges that he had been battling for several years. A private family service is planned for a later date, in accordance with his family’s wishes.
Don’s family encourages those wishing to honor his memory to adopt a rescue animal, enjoy a game of chess, or take slow drives, activities that reflect Don’s passions and gentle spirit. His playful stubbornness and dry wit made a lasting impression on those who knew him, ensuring that his legacy will be remembered by many.
Early Life and Family
Born on August 23, 1940, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Don was the youngest of four children to parents Ernest and Jennie (Camp) Scott. His early life involved extensive travel across the American West due to his father’s career with the Army Corps of Engineers. The family moved multiple times, from Durango, Colorado, to Albuquerque, New Mexico, then to Sand Springs, Oklahoma, eventually settling in Beverly Hills, California, where he graduated from Beverly Hills High School.
Personal Life and Relationships
In his personal life, Don married Charlene Hansen from Philip, South Dakota, with whom he had a daughter, Valerie Ann. Following their divorce, a cousin named Phyllis set him up on a blind date with Eva Louise Hieb. The couple married and established their family in Fort Pierre, South Dakota, welcoming two children, David and Elizabeth.
Although Don and Eva had plans to travel across the United States in an RV upon retirement, they chose instead to relocate to Sioux Falls to be nearer to family. They embraced the joy of being “grand puppies” to numerous rescue animals, creating a lively home filled with love and companionship.
Passions and Interests
Don’s interests were reflective of his simple yet fulfilling lifestyle. He had a passion for classic cars, chess, and motorcycle expeditions to the Black Hills with his son, David. Furthermore, he found joy in watching auto review shows, encompassing his long-standing love for automobiles.
A devoted father, Don demonstrated his commitment to his children’s education by reading to his daughter Elizabeth almost every evening and assisting her with spelling bees. His involvement in his children’s school activities included attending football games, accompanying band competitions, and judging Future Farmers of America competitions.
A Love for Animals
Don’s affection for animals was well-known, as he loved animals often dismissed by others, including rattlesnakes. His home was a sanctuary for various pets, reflecting his caring and nurturing disposition. His gentle demeanor and sense of humor contributed to his impactful interactions with those around him.
Survivors and Legacy
Don is survived by his wife of 52 years, Eva, his brother Arthur Lloyd Scott, his children Valerie and Paul White, David and Dana Scott, and Elizabeth and Lance Wilkinson, along with his beloved grandchildren, Megan and Jared White. He was preceded in death by his parents, two siblings, and a sister-in-law.
As the Sioux Falls community mourns the loss of Donnie Gene Scott, his legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family and animals will remain a source of inspiration and fond memories for all who knew him.
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Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER
The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.