Donald C. Kengla ’68

Donald C. Kengla died Aug. 19, 2007, in Atlanta.

Don entered Princeton from Medford (Ore.) Senior High School. Valedictorian of his class, Don also was a varsity basketball player and cross-country runner. At Princeton, Don majored in aeronautical engineering and ate at Dial. Senior year he roomed with Jerry Frucht, Kent Garner, Damon Miller, and John Ragazzini. His classmates remember him as being a contrarian of sorts but always a loyal friend.

After graduation, Don entered the Navy and became an aviator. During a 20-year Navy career, Don served several sea tours and numerous shore assignments across the United States. He retired in 1988 as a commander. His decorations included the Navy's commendation medal, achievement medal, meritorious unit commendation, and Battle "E" ribbon. After his retirement from the Navy, he joined Delta Airlines, where he began a second career as a flight engineer, then co-pilot, and later captain of various aircraft. He retired a second time in 2005, then spent his last two years as a volunteer with Trout Unlimited. He went fishing whenever he could.

His greatest love was his family: Joan, his wife of 38 years, son Peter, and daughter Ann. They and his many friends miss him dearly. To them all, the class extends deepest sympathy.