Donald Andrew O'Nesky

Donald Andrew O’Nesky, 88, passed away on January 29, 2024 in Longwood, Florida. He is survived by his beloved wife Mary O’Nesky, beloved son Donald Andrew O’Nesky Jr., aka “Skip” and Don Jr.’s fiancée, Bernice Clark. Don was born on November 7,1935 in Haileyville, Oklahoma in the center of the southern Oklahoma coal mining activity. He grew up there and played both varsity football and basketball for Haileyville High School. He enrolled at Oklahoma A&M University and majored in Business Administration and joined the Air Force ROTC program. In 1957, Oklahoma A&M University became Oklahoma State University. In May of 1957, Don was part of Oklahoma State University’s first graduating class -- receiving diplomas from both Oklahoma State and Oklahoma A&M. Upon graduation from college, Don entered the U.S. Air Force as a Second Lieutenant. During his 21-year career in the Air Force, he travelled to many overseas locations including Southeast Asia, Holland, Japan and Italy. While stationed in Vietnam, Don met the love of his life, Mary Meliti from New York. They were married in 1961. He enjoyed being in the military and was able to share these experiences with his wife and son. He continued in his education getting a Master’s Degree from Troy State University while still in the Air Force. He retired from the Air Force in 1978. After retirement from the Air Force, Don embarked on a new career path at The American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG). In 1978 he was hired as Member Services Manager. In 1985 he was appointed Deputy Executive director of both AAPG and the AAPG Foundation. Though not a geologist, he became a Foundation Trustee Associate in 1998 and was an active and influential presence for the group. He retired from AAPG in 2002. After retirement, he received the Foundation’s Chairman’s Award in 2016, presented in recognition of those who have made extraordinary contributions (monetary and/or service) to the Foundation. In 2002, he moved to Venice, Florida to enjoy retirement with his wife Mary. He was a caring and devoted husband, loving father and adored by everyone who was blessed to know him. We are very grateful to all his caregivers that showered him with love and made each day better for him with their care and devotion. Don will be missed every day by his family and close friends and those who were lucky enough to have been blessed by his presence. Flowers or gifts can be sent to: 1111 Ermine Avenue Winter Springs, Florida 32708

Donald Andrew O'Nesky

November 7, 1935 - January 29, 2024