Donald Higgins, 68, Black Hawk, died at his home on Monday, November 6, 2017.

He was born on October 24, 1949 in Ft Dodge, IA to Dewey E. and Barbara C. (Roggow) Higgins. He grew up in Ft Dodge and Conrad, Iowa and graduated from Beaman/Conrad High School.

Don enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1971 and was Honorably Discharged in 1974.

Don married Michaelette "Mickey" Materi on May 21, 1973 in Linton, ND and making their home in the Black Hills. In 1977 Don began his Firefighter career with the Ellsworth Air Force Base Fire Department. He earned an Associate's Degree in Fire and Science Management from East Los Angeles College. During his firefighting career, he was awarded the Department of the Air Force Command Civilian Award for Valor. This was the first time in Ellsworth history that a civilian received this award. In some circles he was called "the Governor". Don enjoyed his time walleye fishing on the Missouri River, riding his motorcycle and attending all Sturgis sporting events. The past two years he enjoyed his time giving buffalo tours at Custer State Park, his famous saying "Here they come!"

Family was very special to him and they fondly remember how fastidious he was about his pasture being groomed and free of pine needles and pine cones.

Survivors include his wife Mickey Higgins, Black Hawk, his son Josh Higgins, Piedmont, his daughter, Shawnna (Paul) Jorae, his grandson, Victor Jorae, Summerset and his sister in law, Marjorie Higgins, Conrad, IA.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Kent, sister, Marsha (Higgins) Reeder, and half-sister, Anna Mae.

A Christian wake service and Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, November 12, 2017 at Our Lady of the Black Hills Catholic Church.

Interment with military honors rendered by the Piedmont American Legion Honor Guard and Ellsworth Air Force Base Fire Department Honor Guard will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, November 13, 2017 at Black Hills National Cemetery.

A memorial has been established to SGT Colton Levi Derr Foundation for PTSD.