Donald Brisbin

In Memoriam: Donald Richard Brisbin (AKA: Bris) Donald Richard Brisbin, affectionately known as “Bris”, departed this world suddenly on February 28, 2024. He was born on July 28, 1935, in Cleveland, Oklahoma, to Virginia and Alvin Brisbin. Don's educational journey took him through Cleveland, Barnsdall, and Bartlesville College High School, where he graduated in 1955. His yearbook tagline humorously pointed to his future at the Bartlesville Ford Company. During his formative high school years, Don worked concurrently at Landers Grocery, Hilltop Drive-In, and Arrow Theater, showcasing his strong work ethic. After completing two years at Central Christian, he encountered the love of his life, Mary Ruth Flinn, at a popular burger joint in Bartlesville OK, a fitting backdrop considering his fondness for a good hamburger. They married on October 11, 1957, and were blessed with three daughters: Terri, Crystal, and Sonya. Don was widely respected for his unparalleled work ethic, often holding three jobs to provide for his growing family. His dedication extended to the Bartlesville Police Department, where he served as an officer in 1960, later earning a promotion to Senior Patrolman. In 1965 he became the inaugural recipient of the "Bartlesville Policeman of the Year" award, a testament to his commitment to the community. While serving on the police force, Don also drove a school bus for Bartlesville Public Schools, influencing and guiding youths towards positive life choices. In 1968, he transitioned to Reda Pump Co in field services, continuing his school bus routes and eventually finding success in International shipping before retiring in 1992. Don's passion for sports extended beyond his professional life. He played men's fastpitch softball from the 1960s to the 1980s, becoming renowned statewide if not nationally. He and his teammates had the honor and fun of playing “the King and his Court” with the famed Eddie Feiner at Bill Doenges Memorial Stadium. For those who know Don, they know his love of softball was never-ending. His love for softball manifested in coaching roles, from mentoring his daughters to guiding high school (Nowata and Bartlesville) and college teams, including the inaugural season at Oklahoma Wesleyan University, completing a lifelong goal as a college softball coach. Upon "retirement" in 1992, Don dedicated his time to teaching girls' fastpitch pitching lessons, leaving an indelible mark on countless students. He authored a book detailing pitching techniques, sharing his expertise with a broader audience. While his obsession with softball is evident, Don is most known for his love of family first, softball and CARS. His collection over the years included at least 200 different models (Not all at the same time!) He owned about every make and model ever made. In his later years he enjoyed owning several classics with his 1939 Plymouth Businessman’s Coupe winning the “2018 Oldies but Goodies President’s Choice Award.” Don and Mary attended countless events featuring their grandchildren and, most recently, great-grandchildren. Don is survived by his daughters Terri (Rene Stefanopoulos) and Sonya (Scott) Reed, grandchildren Devin (Brittany) Brisbin of Bristow, OK, Amanda (Zach) Hudson of Skiatook, OK, Sadie (Thad) Reed of Bartlesville, OK, and Morgan Stefanopoulos of Bartlesville, OK, as well as great-grandchildren in order by age: Taigyn, Lakota, Matt, Trevor, Landon, Channing, Lincoln, Hayes, Lennox, and Kolt. He is also survived by his brothers Mark (Daisy) Brisbin and Steve Brisbin, brother-in-law Buster Dell, and lifelong friends/family Leon and Frances Campbell. To view the service via live-stream, please click the following link: https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTcwOTc4MjU0MDI5OTA0OCZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==

Donald Brisbin

July 28, 1935 - February 28, 2024