Donald E. Pavlin was born February 2, 1941 at Winter Haven, FL to Anthony and Ethel (Crater) Pavlin.  He grew up and attended school at Mount Vernon.  He resided on the family farm where he spent his entire life farming.  After the death of his father, he took on the responsibility of caring for his mother. He was very giving and helped numerous relatives and friends in many ways. He had a softer heart than anyone knew.

He is survived by his mother, Ethel Pavlin, Mount Vernon; four brothers: James (Agnes) Pavlin, Parkston; Ron (Ramona) Pavlin, Mitchell; Charles (Evelyn) Pavlin, Sioux Falls; Thomas (Trudy) Pavlin, Mitchell; one sister, Ethel “Blondie” Pavlin, Sioux Falls and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, half sister, Pearl Crawford and half brother, Ralph Pavlin.