Donald E. Morris

Donald Earl "Big" Morris, Sr., 64, of Laureldale, passed away March 1, 2013 in Mifflin Rehab Center. He lost his battle after a valiant fight with cancer.

He was the loving husband of Maxine K. (Specht) Morris, whom he married July 1, 1976.

Born in Waynesburg, PA he was a son of the late Earl E. and Pearl F. (Kieger) Morris.

Donald was a 1967 graduate of Reading High School and also graduated from Montgomery Community College Police Academy.

He was a federal police officer for 23 years, and was commissioned in five different states. He was employed by Reading Railroad Police Department and then later, Conrail Police Department retiring in 1994. After retirement he worked as a Sales Associate and soon become the assistant manager of Sears Hardware, Kenhorst until December, 2012.

Donald was a lifelong member of Central Fire Company, Laureldale. He was also a member of Reading Booster Club.

He was a black belt in Karate, enjoyed being home with his family, working in the yard and garden, an tinkering in the garage with his neighborhood buddies.

Donald was an outstanding person. He was an outstanding husband and father, and a friend to everyone.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his five children: Donald E. Morris, Jr. West Reading, Karen A. wife of Glen A. Blankenbiller, Ruscomanor Township, Richard A. Katzenmoyer, husband of Beth, Laureldale, Michael R. Wood, husband of Tricia, Temple, and Lori L., wife of Gary Kline, Sinking Spring.

Also surviving are his brother, Richard E. Morris, husband of Betty, Riverview Park, and sister, Patricia K. Zerkowski Ephrata.

Other survivors include a nephew, Scott Zerkowski, seven grandchildren: Ricky, Brianne, Patricia, Jordan, Tanner, Grayson, and Brady, and one great-granddaughter on the way, Emma Taylor.

Donald was predeceased by his German Shepherds, and loyal companions, Tasha and Mariah.

Service will be Thursday, March 7, 2013 at 11 a.m. in Walter R. Christ Funeral Home, Inc., 3300 Kutztown Road, Laureldale. A viewing will be held from 10a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in Berks County Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his name may be made to Berks County Humane Society, 1801 N. 11th St., Reading, PA 19604.

Online condolences may be recorded at www.christfuneralhome.com.