Donald Burdette Black

January 20, 1913 - December 30, 2008
Donald Burdette Black

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Donald B. Black, 95, of Hendersonville, NC, died Tuesday, December 30, 2008, at the Elizabeth House in Flat Rock, NC.

Born in Newhall, IA, he was the son of the late Bert and Cad Black. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Robert Black of Newhall, IA; and sisters, Naomi Haines of Davis Junction, IL, and Jerry Howard Black of Southfield, MI

Donald moved to Rockford, IL, as a youngster and graduated from Rockford High School in 1929. After he graduated in 1933 from the University of Illinois in Chemistry, he worked for A&P from 1933-1941 as a traveling auditor.

He married Clara Myrtle Ostrander on November 17, 1934. He was employed by Dow Chemical Company in sales and purchasing, eventually becoming Manager of Purchasing Chemicals from 1941-1978. He moved to Washington, DC, during World War II, and then to Midland, MI until retirement.

Donald moved to Clemson, SC, and worked for Clemson University for 18 years (1978-1995) as an Adjunct Professor of Chemistry, with the goal of establishing an interface between Clemson University and the chemical industry. He established the Distinguished Chemical Industry Business Seminar Series which brought outstanding leaders in the chemical and allied industries to Clemson. As a result, he was honored in April of 1996 by Clemson University by being presented the Distinguished Service Award.

In addition to his loving wife of 74 years, Clara of Hendersonville, he is survived by his sons, Robert Black and wife, Virginia, of La Jolla, CA; David Black and wife, Jan, of Flat Rock; and Richard Black of McLean, VA; two grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and eight step-great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to express their sincere thanks to the staff and volunteers at the Elizabeth House for the dignity, care, and comfort Donald received for the 20 days in their presence, and to the staff and residents of Pine Park for supporting Clara.


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  • January 03, 2009
    Kevin, Amy, Zack & Shelby Spencer says:
    We will all miss you very much. May God continue to bless you and grant you peace.

  • January 03, 2009
    Karen Ann Ricketts says:
    Don and Myrtie are longtime friends of my deceased parents, Helen and Chet Ricketts. As a college student, I worked at the Midland Country Club. Don was my second favorite person there, second only to my dad. I always told people he was my first "boyfriend". He was the epitome of a true gentleman. I remember his favorite treat being snapper (turtle) soup. Later, he and Myrtie were responsible for encouraging my parents to move to Clemson. I was privileged to become friends with Don and Myrtie. In my living room, I proudly display cups and saucers that Myrtie gave me when they moved from Bayshore. They are a big part of my SC memories. Earth has lost a fine man; I hope he, Mom and Dad can play some golf together in Heaven. Please give Myrtie my love and condolences.

  • January 04, 2009
    The Spencer Family says:
    We were sadden to hear the news of Don's passing. Our family spent many memorable Holidays with Dave and Mom and always enjoyed Don's company. He was the best Trivial Pursuit partner I've ever had. He will certainly be missed.

  • January 05, 2009
    Debbie Pittillo says:
    I was always honored and happy to see Mr. Black's smile...being a part of Donald's life has been a joy for me. I send my love to Clara, and to the family. Please keep in touch, Debbie Pittillo, FNP

  • January 05, 2009
    Nick Nuechterlein says:
    Audrey and I send our condolences to you and the family. We had lost track of you and Don after you moved to NC years ago. What a wonderful life the two of you had together for 74 years. We have many pleasant memories of those days when I worked for Don in Fine Chemical Sales. He was a great mentor for me and others. Nick