Don Clemons has been honored as Man of the Year for 2019 by the Mineola Rotary Club. He was presented the award by club President-elect Denise Hurst at the Kindness Kottage board meeting on Monday, June 1.

The award is usually presented at the annual chamber of commerce banquet, which had to be canceled in March.

Clemons served in the U.S. Navy from 1962-65 as a radio-telegraph operator. After his tour, he attended the University of Iowa for two years. He had a successful 36-year career at Rockwell International Collins Radio in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. After retirement, he continued to work as the liaison between Rockwell and their suppliers and customers.

Don and his wife, Debra, moved to Mineola in 2007. He has served on many committees at Lake Country Bible Church and as a volunteer with the Mineola Elementary School literacy program.

Don is a certified handler for his therapy dog, Liberty, and they are members of the K9 Comforters therapy group.

Don often walks around his neighborhood picking up trash and assisting with his neighbors’ projects. He listens for the needs of others and surprises them with solutions.

“He is a man who serves as he leads and guides as he works beside you. He is a perfect blend of business expert and compassionate servant,” said Rev. Paul Thomasson.

Clemons serves on the Kindness Kottage board of directors as the financial coordinator. He was instrumental in the purchase and remodeling of the store and in working with the Meredith Foundation to receive a grant for the project.

Clemons has helped pick up donated food and clothing, stocked the food pantry and coordinated closely with the Kindness Kottage executive director and staff to keep the store and food pantry operating at top efficiency.

Man of the year is the oldest award presented in Mineola. For over 65 years, this award has recognized men for their contribution to the community over a period of years. It is to be presented to a man of high moral character, selfless service and vision.

Man of the year is selected from the input of six Mineola service clubs and groups and can only be awarded to an individual once in their lifetime.