Donald J. Mallette, 84, of Sycamore, IL died on July 31, 2026 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on August 8, 1941 in Aurora, IL to Orville and Marian (Rokey) Mallette.  He married Jeanne Kalvin on April 28, 1973.

Donald was a veteran serving in the U.S. Air Force.  He embraced a lifelong passion for aviation as a dedicated pilot and found peace and freedom while soaring through the sky.

Donald expressed his love for music and his vibrant spirit playing the saxophone.  He filled his home with the beautiful sound of family jam sessions and melody.

Survivors include his wife Jeanne; 3 children Rachel Grzadzinski, Marc Mallette and Tim Mallette; 5 grandchildren Simon Mallette, Jane Mallette, Susan Mallette, Jonah Mallette and Nadine Mallette; 10 siblings Jim Mallette, Bob Mallette, Mary Ann Feiden, Nancy Neary, Michael Mallette, Patti LeFleur, Jeanne Dennis, Susie Neuenkirchen, Kathy Konen and John Mallette; and numerous nieces and nephews.

His Memorial Mass will be at 10:30 AM on Thursday, August 6th at the Church of St. Mary, 244 Waterman St., Sycamore, IL.
Burial will be at the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 209 W. Hoff Road, Elwood, IL.

For information please call the Butala Funeral Home, Sycamore, IL. 815-895-2833.  To sign the online guest book or share a memory, go to www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com