August 29, 2025

Community Mourns Loss of Respected Colonel

News Summary

The Jacksonville community is heartbroken by the passing of Colonel Donald L. Adkison, a revered military veteran and community member. Colonel Adkison, who dedicated his life to serving his country, is remembered for his commitment to family and service. His funeral services are scheduled to honor his legacy, with an Honor Ride planned for later, showcasing the community’s appreciation for his contributions.

Jacksonville, Florida – The community is in mourning following the passing of Colonel Donald L. Adkison (RET) on August 21, 2025. He died at 7:25 PM, surrounded by family and loved ones. Born on August 12, 1938, in Haines City, Florida, Adkison was a respected military veteran and a cherished member of his community.

Colonel Adkison grew up in Haines City and moved to Groveland, Florida, in 1949. He graduated from Groveland High School in June 1956, where he excelled in several sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. Following high school, Adkison pursued his education at Clemson College before enlisting in the U.S. Army in June 1959. His dedication to serving his country defined his life and career.

During his military service, Adkison completed Basic Training, Advanced Infantry Training, Officer Candidate School, and Flight School. He was assigned to the 56th Aviation Detachment stationed in Orleans, France, where he met his future wife, Irmgard, in September 1962. The couple married in Bonfeld, Germany, on February 14, 1963, before moving back to the United States after Adkison’s discharge from the Army in November 1964.

After settling in Orlando, Florida, he worked briefly at R.C. Can Company before joining the Florida National Guard in June 1965. Adkison continued to serve as a military pilot, officially transitioning to full-time service with the National Guard on March 1, 1968. His commitment and leadership abilities enabled him to advance through the ranks, culminating in his retirement as Colonel in August 1994, where he served as the Army Aviation State Officer.

Upon his retirement from military service, Adkison briefly worked for America Share Insurance Company before co-founding Bonfeld Investment Company and Adkison Towing Company in March 1996. He also launched the First Coast Road Rangers with the state of Florida in 2007, showcasing his continued dedication to service beyond his military career.

Colonel Adkison is preceded in death by his parents, Irmgard, and his grandchildren Cindy Mattingly and Matthew Bryan. He is survived by his brother James Lanny Adkison of Ocala, Florida, as well as his four children: Nadia Le Bohec, Donald Marshall Adkison, John E. Adkison, and Michelle Polcz. He leaves behind multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom mourn his passing.

Funeral services for Colonel Adkison will be held on August 30, 2025, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church located in Jacksonville Beach. Visitation will occur from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 AM. A celebration of his life will take place later at 6140 Heckscher Drive in Jacksonville, Florida.

Furthermore, an Honor Ride is planned for September 2, 2025. The procession will begin at Quinn Shalz Funeral Home at 10:00 AM and will conclude at the Jacksonville National Cemetery for interment at 11:00 AM, where Colonel Adkison will receive a proper military burial to honor his dedicated service to the country.

As the community reflects on Colonel Adkison’s life, he will undoubtedly be remembered for his unwavering dedication to service, his passion for his family, and the impact he made in the lives of many.

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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER

The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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