Donald W. Chenelle, 76, of Leroy was called home to the Lord on Sunday, January 24th after a period of declining health over the last 18 months.  Don, also commonly known as 'Mr. C.', 'D-Man' or 'Papa' to his three granddaughters, had been a resident of Leroy for the last 45+ years.  After completing his undergraduate studies at John Carroll University, he went on to earn his master's degree in History as a launch pad to a lifetime of servant Leadership starting at John Carroll, followed by over three decades at Case Western Reserve University. During a portion of his career at Case, Don led both Undergraduate Admissions and Financial Aid offices, before focusing the remainder of his time at Case on Financial Aid, as he was most passionate about finding and enabling opportunities for students to pursue their academic dreams in support of realizing their personal and professional goals.  In addition to his Administrative responsibilities at Case, he was heavily involved in numerous student organizations, most notably the Ohio Eta Chapter of Phi Delta Theta, serving as Faculty Adviser for 23 years, and where part of the Chapter house is dedicated in his honor today.  He likely saw this role as his best avenue to keep an eye on his three boys, all proud alumnus of the University and Ohio Eta Chapter members.  Don's impact in this world expanded outside of his role at Case, serving as President of the Ohio Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, being appointed in 2009 as just their sixth lifetime member in honor of his achievements and service to the organization in advancing Student Aid opportunities across the state of Ohio.  Don also received the James R. White Award from OASFAA in honor of his dedication to students and the broader Financial Aid community.  While serving in OASFAA, Don also served on the Board of Trustees for Lakeland Community College.  Don's career at Case culminated in his receiving the 2009 President's Distinguished Service Award from then President Barbara R. Snyder.  Outside of Case, Don had many interests, most revolving around his family.  He established and served as the inaugural Director of the Leroy Youth Club, President of the Lake Catholic Cougar Wrestling Club, and countless coaching assignments for his boy's athletic teams.  Don was also an avid fan of all things Cleveland sports, the Playhouse Square Theatre district, and a supporter of The Ohio State Buckeyes.  However, if his arm was to be twisted, he'd tell you 'The Tribe' is where his passion lies most.  Don spent his later years focusing on his small business venture, YDM Fitness, where he enjoyed meeting and welcoming new clients, playing with his dog, Danny, and being an advocate for the NE Ohio Community overall.

Don is survived by his three sons, Matthew (Elizabeth), his granddaughter Katie; Joseph (Jennifer) and his two granddaughters, Cassidy and Kyla, and Michael aka Botch.

A celebration of life will be held during the Summer, or at a point in time when we can come together as a collective 'family', safely paying tribute, while celebrating his great life and tremendous impact.  As part of this event, there will be numerous organizations identified where Don would want contributions in his honor to be directed.