Don Bosten

Donald Robert Bosten, a beloved husband, esteemed mechanical engineer, and cherished member of the community, passed away on January 21, 2025, in Jackson, Tennessee, at the age of 82.  Born on February 26, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, Don’s journey through life was marked by his unwavering dedication to both his profession and his community.

Although born in Brooklyn, Don was raised in Garden City, NY with his parents and siblings.  Don graduated with a degree in engineering from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, where he left an indelible mark as an active member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. His leadership was evident as he held several offices within the fraternity and served in student government, including secretary of the student chapter of ASME. He even played freshmen soccer his first year. It was during his time at Lehigh that Don achieved a unique distinction, playing a zombie in the iconic film, "Night of the Living Dead," a role that he recalled fondly over the years.

His professional career began at Rockwell Manufacturing Company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he honed his skills and deepened his passion for mechanical engineering. In 1972, Don was transferred to Jackson, Tennessee, joining the ranks of Porter Cable. Throughout his illustrious career, he held over 30 patents for the design of power tools registered with the U.S. Government and received several awards in recognition of his ingenious inventions. He took immense pride in his work, which reflected not only his technical expertise but also his genuine joy in the advancements he contributed to the field.

Outside of work, Don was known for his warm and humble spirit. Described by his wife as a wonderful man, he embodied the values of kindness and community service. In Jackson, he actively participated in local life by playing softball and volleyball for leisure. His community engagements extended further, as he volunteered with Junior Achievement, built theater sets for the Jackson Theater Guild and Trenton Nitelite Theater, and served as a deacon at the Evangelical Christian Church before becoming a member of Northside Church.

Left to cherish his memory is his adoring wife, Debbie Bosten;  loving daughter, Melissa Noel; grandchildren, Aliya Noel, Ava Noel, and Isaiah Sauce; and sister, Nancy Bosten Battiste.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Helen Bosten; and brother, Paul W. Bosten.

Services to honor Don's life will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 30, 2025, in the chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors, with Rev. Gerry Campbell officiating.  The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service.  

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Northside Church at 2571 N. Highland Avenue, Jackson, TN 38305. 

Don’s legacy is one of innovation, service, and love. He will be remembered for his contributions to mechanical engineering, his dedication to the community, and the warmth he brought into the lives of those who knew him. His memory will continue to inspire, reflecting the genuine and humble person he was throughout his life.

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