BLOCKEL, Donald, age 83, of Tampa, FL passed away at home surrounded by family on April 6, 2020. He was born on May 24, 1936 in Chicago, IL to parents Herman & Florence Blockel.In his younger years, Don was an alter boy at St. Hillary's Catholic Church. He had a great love for the Lord and intended to study for the Priesthood until Dottie stole his heart at age 16. Don attended Loyola University in Chicago before beginning his full time career. He worked for Wire Rope Corporation of America for more than 40 years, starting at the warehouse desk and moving up to District Sales Manager. He was relocated to various states around the country before finally landing in Tampa, FL. Don has an infectious smile and a great sense of humor. He was so fun to be around and loved by all. He loved to travel with his wife, family, and friends throughout much of the United States as well as many other countries. His latest travel was as recent as six months before his death. Don had many passions; first and foremost was his loving wife Dottie. In his early years he enjoyed artistic painting, his mid-life passion was photography. He could usually be found taking pictures, developing them in his homemade dark room, and always surrounded by Canon cameras...lots and lots of cameras and lenses!In his later years, Don enjoyed his retirement in Bonita Springs, FL and was an avid golfer, having a witnessed hole-in-one and many close friends. He was very loved and will be missed by all. Don was preceded in death by his father, Herman; his mother, Florence, and one brother, Robert.Loving survivors include his wife of 64 years, Dottie Blockel; three daughters: Susan Juncal (Camilo), Cheryl Paxson (Tom), and Karen Burruezo (Jose); one son, Donald Blockel Jr. (Amy); nine grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. John XXIII Catholic Church in Fort Myers, FL at 10am on Thursday, June 18, 2020. Burial will immediately follow at the church cemetery.

St. John XXIII Catholic Church