Donald Joseph Cimaglia

Donald Joseph Cimaglia, 94, peacefully passed away on July 30, 2025.  He was born on September 16, 1930, in Denver, CO. to Pasquale and Della Cimaglia, he was the youngest of six children. 

He attended schools in Denver and graduated in 1948 from North High School.  He then served in the United States Coast Guard from 1948-1953.  Following his military service, he attended Colorado State College of Education in Greeley and graduated in 1958 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and Political Science.  He later earned his Master of Arts Degree in Social Science in 1961.  He taught Social Studies and English at Fort Morgan Jr. High from 1958-1973.  He then taught Social Studies at Fort Morgan High School from 1973-1987 when he retired from teaching.  He also taught at Morgan Community College as a part-time Economics Instructor.  During his career, he was active in the local, state, and national levels for the teachers’ associations and served on several boards.   

Don was very active in sports.  From a young age, he loved baseball, he continued to play High School and American Legion baseball.  While in the Coast Guard, he played semi-pro with a team while stationed in San Francisco.  Later, after playing softball for several years and getting to umpire a few games “by chance” he realized he liked it.  In 1963 he started umpiring; first men’s softball and high school junior varsity baseball and eventually high school varsity baseball through 1980.  From 1976 to 1979 he did some college games at UNC in Greeley.  He was honored for his 16 years of service to the sport by being inducted into lifetime honorary membership of the Colorado High School Baseball Umpires Association.  In addition to enjoying baseball, Don spent many years bowling in a league, and he was an avid golfer. 

Don married Barbara Overman, whom he met while attending college.  After graduating, they were married on August 17, 1958, and began their teaching careers in Fort Morgan, CO.  They had two daughters, Deb and Karen.  Barbara was an elementary school teacher.   

He is survived by his wife of 67 years Barbara, daughters Deb Stella (Scott) and Karen Bothwell (Kevin), four grandchildren; Amber (Zach), Shelly (Dan), Kellen (Ruby), Kelsey (Akilah) and nine great-grandchildren; Lyla, Josie, Eli, Belle, Kimber, Annie, Cash, Ellis, and Porter.   

Don was preceded in death by his parents, all five siblings, and several nieces and nephews. 

No formal services are planned.