Donald R. Wert, 86, of Strasburg, passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2024 at home with his loving wife and family at his side.

Born in Strasburg, he was the son of the late Ralph and Verna (Eshleman) Wert. He was the husband of Marlena (Marla) Wert and they would have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in October. Don was a beloved member of the community and a distinguished athlete. He was a 1956 graduate of Solanco High School, where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball, playing varsity all four years. His athletic abilities earned him recognition early on, including the Lancaster Football Association's Outstanding Football Player Award in 1955. As a senior pitcher for the Varsity Baseball Team in 1956, Don led his team to a county title with an impressive 8-1 record and was selected to the American Legion Eastern All-Star Team as a third baseman.

In 1958, Don signed a professional baseball contract with the Detroit Tigers, beginning a successful career in the sport he loved. He rose to prominence in 1961, winning the Triple-A American Association Batting Crown in Denver, Colorado. In 1963, he was called up to the majors as the Tigers' third baseman, and in 1965, he was named "Tiger of the Year" by Detroit sportswriters. That same year, Don led the American League third basemen with a .976 fielding percentage and was the only Tiger to play all 162 games of the season.

Don's remarkable achievements continued as he ranked among the top fielding third basemen in the league from 1966 to 1969. In 1968, he was selected for the American League All-Star team and famously doubled off Tom Seaver. That same year, Don played a crucial role in clinching the AL pennant for the Tigers with a game-winning single against the Yankees, paving the way for the team's World Series victory over the St. Louis Cardinals.

After retiring from a nine-year major league career, Don continued to contribute to the sport, coaching the baseball team at Franklin & Marshall College from 1976 to 1981, leading them to a MAC Championship in 1978. His dedication to sports and his community earned him numerous honors, including the George W. Kirchner Memorial Award from Lancaster Sportswriters and Broadcasters, induction into the Columbia Area Chapter Sports Hall of Fame, the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, and the Solanco High School Sports Hall of Fame. Importantly, to give back to baseball, Don also played golf for the Major League Baseball Players Alumni, an association that promotes baseball and raises money for various charities for 30 years. He also supported local causes such as providing donations for the annual Hospice & Community Care Labor Day Auction.

As a kind, humble, good father and caring friend, Don will be remembered not only for his outstanding athletic achievements but also for his commitment to mentoring young athletes and his love for the game. In addition to his wife, Marla, he is survived by his children, Scott Wert, married to Emery of Tucson, AZ, Barbara Hess, married to Lew of Holtwood, PA, and Kimberly Myers, married to Curtis of Strasburg, PA; and two grandchildren, Mason, and Julia Myers. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Fred, Elvin, Jerry, and Virginia.

A special thanks is given to Compassus Hospice for their loving and dedicated care to Don and the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Don's name to Compassus Hospice, 2101 Oregon Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601. A private celebration of life ceremony for family will take place later in September.