Donald L. “Don” Giesler Sr., a familiar name in Perry County real estate for roughly 40 years and the owner-operator of Giesler Realty, died Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, at Independence Care Center.
He was 88.
Born Nov. 20, 1936, in St. Mary, to LeRoy John Giesler and Rita A. (L’Hote) Giesler Kiefer.
Giesler graduated from St. Mary High School and initially went into farming with his father. He later changed course, earning his licenses as a real estate broker and appraiser, and establishing Giesler Realty in Perryville.
For decades, his name appeared on “for sale” signs and appraisal reports across the county, making him one of the most recognized brokers in the region.
Business directories and listings placed Giesler’s appraisal service in downtown Perryville, while a Missouri Photo Workshop feature in 2015 described him as “once a highly sought-after realtor” — a nod to his long career and reputation in the field.
His late wife, Norma, who died in 2014, also shared that passion, working as a building inspector and real estate agent herself. The two married on Feb. 18, 1984.
Beyond real estate, Giesler’s civic footprint was extensive. He served in the Missouri Army National Guard and was a faithful member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. He held a lifetime membership in the Knights of Columbus Council 1263, was active with American Legion Post 133 and AMVETS Post 94 and maintained ties to the Missouri REALTORS® Association and the Perryville Chamber of Commerce.
Family members recall a man whose professional and personal lives were deeply rooted in Perry County. Survivors include two sons, Joseph (Luanne) Giesler of Milford, Iowa, and Roy (Candyce) Giesler of Perryville; a daughter, Julia (Kevin) Hogard of St. Mary; daughter-in-law, Kathy Giesler of Perryville; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Norma J. Giesler; a son, Donald L. Giesler Jr.; a sister, Janice Proctor; and a brother, Daryl Giesler.
Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, at Ford & Young Funeral Home in Perryville, and will continue from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, at the funeral home.
A Funeral Mass will follow at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, with the Rev. Joe Geders, C.M., officiating.
Burial will be in Home Cemetery, Perryville, with military honors provided by American Legion Post 133 and the Delta Team.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry.
Condolences may be shared online at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome.com.
