Donald James Hesch, 91, of Palm City, FL passed away peacefully with his wife and sons by his side January 14, 2024. He was born August 7, 1932 to Anthony and Isabel (DeWyze).

Don served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and graduated from Culver Stockton College in 1958.

Don's parents (Anthony and Isabel) started A.H. Entertainers in 1939. Don joined in 1959 with his brother Wayne also joining soon after. Anthony and Wayne died young leaving Isabel and Don to operate A.H. Entertainers. Soon after they were joined by Don's sons Craig, Mark, Chris, and Wayne's son-in-law, Chris McSwain. Under Don's leadership, the group grew the company and added many divisions to the business as it was renamed A.H. Management Group, Inc. Part of the business was sold in 2020 and the rest in 2023.

During Don's career, he was very devoted to the vending industry. He served as chairman of the National Automatic Merchandising Association and the president of the Amusement and Music Operators Association - perhaps the only operator who has held the top elected posts of both national associations. He also served as president for The Illinois Coin Machine Operators Association, The Illinois Automatic Merchandising Association, and The Better Vendors Association. Don was nominated The Play Meter Magazine's Operator of the Year and received The Illinois Coin Machine Association's Lifetime Achievement Award, and has just been nominated for AAMA Amusement Industry Hall of Fame.

In addition to industry associations, Don served as a board member for The Y.M.C.A., a director of The Foxdale Bank, and was on the board of trustees for Culver Stockton College, his alma mater.

Don loved life. He stayed busy with his hobbies throughout the years - attending sporting events, snowmobiling, boating, and was an avid golfer.

Don was a loving husband, father, and friend. He was a great listener and a mentor to many.

Donald is survived by his loving wife of 28 years Susan Steurer Hesch of Palm City, FL and his beloved family: sons Craig Hesch (Alice), Mark Hesch (Diane) and Chris Hesch (Laurie) as well as 6 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, many grandnieces and grandnephews.