Donald Eugene Wigger, of Overland Park, Kansas, formerly of Leawood and Prairie Village passed away peacefully in his sleep, at his home at Tallgrass Creek on February 6, 2019, after an extended illness. Don was born in Appleton City, Missouri to Delbert and Blanche (Sickman) Wigger on April 8, 1932. Along with his younger brother Wendell, the family moved to Kansas City while the boys were still in school. Don was graduated from Kansas City Central High School as a member of the class of 1949.
Don passed the Civil Service Examination at age 18 and worked for the Army Corps of Engineers. After having worked in the field he decided to start his own business. In 1960 Don founded Western Air Maps, Inc. and through the years with the help of great employees it became a leading technical mapping company in the Midwest. Don was the CEO and President of the business for 48 years. Don was also a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Don joined Village Presbyterian Church in 1970 and became very active eventually serving as an Elder and Deacon. He was a board member of Mainstream Coalition, a voice for moderation in government. In addition, he served as a board member of FOSS, Friends of Sacred Structures. Don also enjoyed his many friendships in the Vanguard Club, which is a men’s breakfast group with informative speakers.
Don was an avid golfer a longtime member of Milburn Country Club and more recently Leawood Country Club. He was also a bridge player and rabid Chiefs, Royals and K-State fan. Don loved working with kids and he coached little league football and baseball for many years in Chicago and Shawnee Mission, including his sons’ teams. His hobbies included keeping a perfectly manicured lawn, making stained glass and other forms of art.
Don had a special relationship with his brother Wendell who is deaf and the two of them communicated through a sign language they created as boys. Don went on to become an advocate for the hearing impaired.
Don was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Barbara of the home, his brother Wendell Wigger (Sheryl) of Olathe, and six his sons, Tim Wigger (Deb), Cris Chamberlain (Pam), Scott Chamberlain (Beth), Paul Green (Michelle), Mark Green (Laurel), and Todd Green (Bob Batterson). Don is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at Village Presbyterian Church on Friday February 15, 2019 at 2:00 PM. A reception will follow. A private interment will be in the Columbarium of Village Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Village Presbyterian Church or charities of your choice.