Donald E. Nolan, 85, of Taylorville passed away at 6:10am on Thursday, October 27, 2016 in his home. He was born on October 23, 1931 in Taylorville, the son of Edward J. and Elta G. (Buesinger) Nolan. Mr. Nolan attended Bradley University before leaving to join the Air Force during the Korean Conflict. On November 22, 1958, he married Mary R. Yonikus at St. Mary’s Church in Assumption. He was a retired farmer and passionate about agriculture. In 1979 Donald served as a wagon master for Illinois during the tractorcade to Washington D.C. for the American Agriculture Movement. He was an original board member for the Illinois Tractor Pulling Association and was well known for competing with his Minneapolis Moline G1000 named “Yellow Fever”. Don was a motorsports enthusiast, especially racing his Triumph motorcycle in the 1950’s and 60’s. Among many other races, he competed in the Springfield Mile and the Peoria Tourist Trophy. In their spare time Mary and Don enjoyed traveling in their RV and loved attending their grandson’s activities, of whom they are very proud. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville and the Knights of Columbus. He was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Fighting Illini.

He is survived by his wife: Mary Nolan of Taylorville; daughter: Kathy (Mike) Drea of Taylorville; grandsons: Nolan Drea of Springfield and Ryan Drea of Chicago; brother: Larry Nolan of Taylorville; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister: Patty Beyers.

A funeral mass will be held at 10:30am on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Msgr. David Lantz officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 until 10:30am on Saturday in the church. Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville. Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Don, or condolences to the family, may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com