Don E. Hardin, Jr.

Don Eugene Hardin Jr. passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 6, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by the love of family in his final moments.

Born in Rochester, NY, Don was raised on the south side of Chicago before moving to Peoria, Illinois. In high school, he was the starting center for the East Peoria High School football team and a standout left-handed pitcher on the baseball team. He was even drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals, but chose instead to pursue higher education—first attending the University of Illinois, then graduating from Bradley University with a B.A. in Business, majoring in Marketing.

In 1956, Don married Nancy A. Nemeth (1935–1988), and together they had two children: the late Barbara A. Fletcher (née Hardin) and Don “Tripp” Eugene Hardin III. Later in life, he found love again and married Mary Swiggum in 2008.

Don found his calling in the orthotic and prosthetic field. He entered the industry in 1967 and devoted more than 57 years to it, remaining active until his passing. He served a term as President of the American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association and was a driving force behind the creation of the Challenger Division of Little League Baseball (later known as OPAF), which gives children with disabilities the chance to play. As an advocate for the O&P industry, he served on several boards, AOPA, INTERBOR, ISPO, OPAF and various other O&P related industries, underscoring his commitment to the advancement of the field.

Don had a lifelong love for golf, jazz music, and technology. A natural storyteller known for his witty and unique “Hardinisms,” he brought laughter and perspective to every conversation.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Swiggum-Hardin; his son, Don “Tripp” E. Hardin III; his stepson, Matthew Swiggum (Heather); his grandchildren, Don “Kip” E. Hardin IV (Kelsey Ledenham), Nancy Fletcher-Dulle (Will Dulle); his grandchildren, Camryn and Nathan Swiggum; his great-grandson, Kellan Dulle; and his soon-to-arrive great-granddaughter, Laney Hardin.

Don leaves behind a legacy of love, humor, wisdom, and service. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

There will be no service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to:

• Colorectal Cancer Alliance or Mighty Men of Greater Cincinnati