Donald Gene Coleman, 84, passed away on April 15 in Fairway, Kansas.

Dr. Coleman spent his life devoted to education. At Fresno State, he taught in what was previously the Department of Educational Research, Administration, and Foundations (now Educational Leadership and Administration).

Before teaching on campus, Dr. Coleman taught at his alma mater, North Side High School in Fort Wayne. After earning his doctorate, he became a professor in the graduate education programs at Indiana University, Northeast Missouri State University (now Truman State University) and San Diego State University, as well as at Fresno State.

He also founded an elementary school at Faith Lutheran Church in Kirksville, Missouri.

Dr. Coleman earned his bachelor’s degree at Indiana University, his master’s degree at the University of St. Francis and his doctorate of education in education administration at Ball State University.

He is survived by his wife, Eileen; daughters Suzanne and Jessica; grandchildren Katrina, Rebecca, Michael, Coleman and Sophia; and brothers Ron and Jerry.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

A celebration of life service will be held in Mission, Kansas. For more information, contact 913.432.5441.