New Castle, PA - Donald Maurice Cathcart, 83, of New Castle, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born Aug. 15, 1942, he was the son of the late Nyal and Dorothy Cathcart.

Don was a proud graduate of Clearfield High School and earned his degree in mechanical engineering from Indiana Tech.

He dedicated over 40 years to his career at what is now Linde, retiring as managing director. In this role, he worked tirelessly to preserve jobs, notably preventing the company-mandated closure of one of the then-Praxair plants, safeguarding more than 100 positions.

During his tenure as plant manager of the New Castle facility in the 1980s, he led efforts that secured the contract to coat the heat shields on the Space Shuttle — a significant achievement for such a small local plant.

A man of many passions, Don earned his pilot's license and founded the Penn-Ohio Flying Club in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania, where he delighted in taking friends and family on flights. He treasured family trips for skiing, beach vacations and boating, and he was a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, attending games when he could. Golfing with friends and family brought him great joy, as did simply spending time with his loved ones.

Above all, Don was deeply devoted to his family, leaving a legacy of love, integrity and generosity.

He is survived by his children, Brian (Victoria) and David (Katherine) Cathcart; his cherished grandchildren, Jack, Isabel, Emily and Amelia; as well as his nephew, numerous nieces, in-laws, cousins and many dear friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judith A. Cathcart; and his brother, Alan Cathcart.

Visitation will be 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. A funeral service will immediately follow at 6 p.m. Rev. Jordan Rimmer will officiate. There will be an additional service at noon Friday, April 10, 2026, at the O'Shanter/Mt. Zion United Methodist Church in Olanta, Pennsylvania. Burial will be in Mt. Zion Cemetery in Olanta.

Online condolences can be viewed and left by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.