Donald F. Spink

Donald Fredrick “Dut” Spink, 91, of New Cumberland, PA, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. Born on May 19, 1935, in Steelton, he was the son of the late Arnold and Maude (Wells) Spink.

Don served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War era as a skilled bomber mechanic in England and across the world. After returning home, he was working at the steel mill in Steelton, when he met his future wife, Delores “Dolly” Gordner, who worked nearby at the Cameron Dress Company.

Don and Dolly settled in New Cumberland with their son, Doyle, and built a successful freight business near the Lewisberry Road exit of I-83. Don kept the fleet running as master mechanic and driver, while Dolly ran dispatch, keeping deliveries and drivers on schedule. At its peak, their business grew to more than 30 trucks, hauling defense freight for regional military installations including the New Cumberland Army Depot and Mechanicsburg Naval Depot.

Don and Dolly loved camping and boating, whether on the Chesapeake Bay, Raystown Lake, or somewhere in between. In retirement, they enjoyed antiquing through Craigslist, yard sales, and local thrift shops.

Don was sarcastic, quick-witted, and lived life entirely on his own terms. He could be a little gruff around the edges, but beneath it all was a devoted family man and loving husband. He and Dolly were true partners in every sense, building a business, a family, and a life together while showing those around them what lasting commitment was all about.

Surviving Donald is his wife of 70 years, Delores “Dolly” (Gordner) Spink; daughter-in-law, Karen Sandnes; granddaughters, Emily Smith (Evan Lee) and Rachel McKay (Adam McKay), both of Camp Hill; great-granddaughters, Melina Lee, Alice Dykstra (James Dykstra), Hazel Larssen (Jonah Larssen), and Adeline Guerra; a great-great-grandson, Glen Dykstra; and siblings, William Spink and Judy Tadych. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Doyle Kenneth Smith, Jr.; a brother, Marlin Spink; and sister, Claire Leidig.

Interment will be private at Emanuel Cemetery in Lewisberry.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the New Cumberland Fire Department, 319 4th Street, New Cumberland, PA 17070.