Donald Warren Buchanan, 68, of Metuchen, passed away at home surrounded by his family on January 15, 2022, after a 17-month courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Don was born in Lake Charles, LA, raised in Omaha, NE, and lived in Denver, CO, for 20 years before settling 30 years ago in Metuchen, NJ, with his wife, Esther, where they raised their children, Andrew and Emily. He was a graduate of the University of Nebraska and was employed for 35 years in the insurance claims industry.

Don devoted his life to taking care of his family and friends through countless acts of kindness. He liked to spend his time relaxing on Long Beach Island, skiing fast, biking along the D&R Canal, kayaking the coastal waters of the Jersey Shore, and attending his children's rowing regattas and horse shows. Don was affectionately dubbed "The Heavy Hauler" as he was known for trailering crew boats and horses with his immaculately kept Nissan Armada (aka "The Beast"). Additionally, Don enjoyed attending car shows and was fascinated by all types of unique and classic vehicles.  Don was the Advancement Chair for Andrew's Boy Scout Troop 17 and loved his time participating with him in Boy Scout activities including their trip to Philmont, NM, and was proud of Andrew's Eagle Scout achievement. His time spent with Emily at her sports and equestrian activities were very special to him as he enjoyed being with her and at the barn with the horses.

He will be remembered for his unwavering positive outlook, kindness, warmth, and friendly nature.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Esther O'Donnell; their children, Andrew & Emily; his sister, Suzanne Buchanan; and brother and sister-in-law, Greg and Layne Buchanan of Arizona; the extended O'Donnell family; the extended Buchanan family and the Fitzpatrick family of Canada; and his many friends.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, January 21, 2022, from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at Flynn and Son/Koyen Funeral Home, 319 Amboy Avenue, Metuchen.  A service will be held at the Funeral Home on Saturday at 11am followed by a burial at Hillside Cemetery Metuchen.  The family is planning to have a Celebration of Life around Don's birthday in May.  Details will be provided at a later date.

At the family's request, anyone attending the visitation is asked to wear a mask.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Don's memory to The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network https://secure.pancan.org/site/Donation2?df_id=2681&mfc_pref=T&2681.donation=form1 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html