Donald Lee Joachims
Donald Lee Joachims, 77, of Andover, Kansas, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2024, from complications of mesothelioma. Don was born on July 21, 1947, in Alva, Oklahoma, to Ralph and Lenice Joachims.
Don spent his early years on his family’s 100+ year-old farm in Dacoma, Oklahoma, learning to farm alongside his father and grandmother. His mother, Lenice, instilled in him a love for education as a teacher in a one-room schoolhouse. The family relocated to Wichita when Don was in the fifth grade, though he and his father continued to care for the farm in Dacoma.
Working alongside his father on numerous building and remodeling projects, Don honed a talent for woodworking—a skill that would profoundly shape both his career and life. After graduating from East High School in Wichita in 1965, he returned to Alva, Oklahoma, to attend Northwestern Oklahoma State University, where he earned a degree in Industrial Arts Education in 1969.
While in college, Don married his first wife, Jo Nell Bevers (Humig). Together, they had three children: Chad, Brad, and Heather. Brad passed away shortly after birth in 1975.
In 1983, Don married Sue Koehler, and they began a new chapter of life together. The two left teaching to start a wood manufacturing business, Country Accents. For 22 years, they worked side by side creating custom wood items, forming lasting business relationships across the country. In 2005, Don and Sue retired from Country Accents, entrusting the family business to their son Chad and his wife, who continue its legacy today.
Don played a hands-on role in building and finishing the home he shared with Sue, dedicating countless hours to home improvement projects. He took great pride in designing and maintaining the landscaping around their pool, creating a welcoming space they cherished sharing with others. Most recently, he oversaw a remodel of their home, transforming it into the dream home he and Sue had always envisioned. Don was also generous with his skills, lending his expertise in building, remodeling, and craftsmanship to friends, family, and his church community, including managing a major church renovation.
Don and Sue embarked on numerous community-building business ventures, where their creativity and dedication flourished. They were deeply involved in their community, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and forging meaningful relationships that have stood the test of time. Their leadership and unwavering commitment to helping others left a lasting impact on countless lives.
In retirement, Don found joy in spending time with his grandchildren—Macy, Brody, Jordy, and Jaxon—often attending their school and sporting events. He was immensely proud of their accomplishments and cherished watching them grow into remarkable individuals.
An avid outdoorsman, Don had a deep love for hunting and fishing, passions he joyfully shared with his children and grandchildren. As the years passed, fishing remained a sport he could continue to enjoy. He and Sue spent countless cherished hours fishing together, savoring their time outdoors and always capping their day with a picnic lunch. His beloved hunting dogs and fun fishing tales of “the one that got away” will forever bring smiles to those who knew him.
Don is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Sue Joachims; his son, Chad Joachims (Kimberly Joachims); his daughter, Heather Kaba (Shelby Kaba); and his grandchildren, Macy and Brody
Joachims, and Jordy and Jaxon Kaba. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Lenice Joachims, and his son, Brad Joachims.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Monday, November 25th at 10:30am at the Hope Community Church in Andover, Kansas. Lunch will be served immediately after. Memorial donations can be made to Hope Community Church or Pass It On! Outdoor mentors for kids.