PletcherThe following obituary was reported in The Elkhart Truth.
Donald R. Pletcher, 82, of Bonita Springs, Florida, and a lifelong resident of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Jan. 1, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Pletcher was inducted into the RV/MH Hall of Fame in 2005.
Donald was born in Chillicothe, Missouri. He was a proud graduate of Elkhart High School, Class of 1961, and went on to attend North Central College. He also honorably served as a member of the Army National Guard.
A long-time leader in the recreational vehicle industry, Donald dedicated nearly 40 years to a career he loved. His passion, integrity, and commitment to excellence allowed him to lead by example and positively influence countless colleagues and friends. In recognition of his lasting impact on the industry, he was inducted into the RV Hall of Fame in 2005 – an honor that reflected both his professional achievements and the respect he earned throughout his career.
Donald will be remembered for his kindness, generosity and quiet strength. He had a way of making those around him feel valued, and his steady presence touched many lives.
He is survived by his daughters, Jamie Engen of Bristol, Indiana, and Lesley Ianigro (spouse Jamie Ianigro) of Carmel, Indiana; his grandchildren, Jordan Jefferis (spouse Luke Jefferis) of Christchurch, New Zealand, Jenson Winkler (spouse Eric Winkler) of Dallas, Texas, Joseph Ianigro of Chicago, Illinois, and Andrew Ianigro of Chicago, Illinois; his siblings, Thomas Pletcher (spouse Dana Pletcher) of Bristol, Indiana, Cindy O’Hair (spouse Mike O’Hair) of Houston, Texas, and Lisa Tarchala (spouse Al Tarchala) of Three Rivers, Michigan; and his long-time companion, Margery Nickel of Bonita Springs, Florida.
Donald’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him, and he will be deeply missed.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held at a later date.
