Leaving a Legacy: Meet Tim & Donna Deal 

Allow us to introduce you to valued donors passionate about leaving a legacy in Andrews: Tim and Donna Deal. Thanks to their generosity, the Community Foundation recently launched the Andrews Hometown Endowment Fund that will support projects, initiatives and community events within the Andrews community.  

Tim and Donna are long-time Huntington County residents devoted to the betterment of our community. Their notable list of community involvement showcases how their investment in Huntington goes far beyond monetary contributions. Tim serves as a board member for the Andrews Riverside Cemetery, the Tree Board (a component of the Mayor’s Advisory Council on Environmental Stewardship) and the Historic Forks of the Wabash, where Donna also serves as a guide. The couple are proud master gardeners, pickleball fanatics, active YMCA and Maple Grove Golf Course members and attend Emmanuel Community Church.  

Donna dedicated many years to her work with American Specialty Insurance, and now serves part-time at Town and County Florist making sure beauty is in full bloom county-wide. Tim spent his early career as a draftsman, before becoming a design engineer at IH Heavy Truck Group. He then transitioned to technology companies that deploy software and services to engineering companies. This gave him the ability to travel extensively and work with some wonderful companies and leaders before retiring in 2012. 

Family is an integral part of Tim and Donna’s lives, combined they have 7 children and 13 grandchildren. Together, they are passionate about shaping the future for their family, heritage and community. Tim credits much to his instrumental parents, Robert and Vera Deal, whose legacy of generosity inspires him still today.  

Through the Andrews Hometown Endowment Fund, the couple is pleased to give back to a community that has given so much. Dive into the Q & A below to hear Tim share about their decision to invest in the creation of this impactful fund.  

Q: Why did you decide to invest in the Andrews Hometown Endowment Fund?  

A: “I became aware of the Community Foundation upon the passing of my parents, Robert and Vera Deal, who established a Community Fund with the Foundation. The gifts they provided have been able to help many beneficiaries throughout the county, including Andrews. Their example inspired me to continue family contributions, and I am proud to invest in the community where my brothers and I were raised.”  

Q: Why is investing in Andrews important to you? 

A: “I will always have a special place in my heart for Andrews as it holds many fond memories—early education as an Andrews Cardinal, participating in Boy Scouts, attending the United Methodist Church, enjoying Lion Club fish fries, fishing in the river, playing neighborhood games and helping my dad in his business. Looking back, I had a great childhood seated in my hometown of Andrews.” 

Q: What do you hope the Andrews Hometown Endowment Fund will accomplish for the Andrews community? 

A: “I expect the Fund will provide relief for projects that might not otherwise be possible. I also believe the Fund will provide encouragement within the local community. With the Foundation’s oversight, the fund will ensure lasting financial support for the Andrews community well into the future.” 

Q: How have you seen your family’s funds impact the Huntington community? 

A: “I have witnessed my parents’ fund impact many school-related projects, which is special because my mother was a dedicated teacher. I have also seen funding support Andrews library initiatives, youth education and projects that promote overall wellbeing in Huntington County. I’ve often smiled thinking of my great aunt and uncle, Mike (Ephriam) and Mary Cecil, as they have also contributed to many county projects via funds left upon their passing. It’s wonderful to see their contributions still making an impact in our community.”  

Q: What would you say to someone considering donating to support the Andrews Hometown Endowment Fund? 

A: “I would encourage everyone to consider donating to this impactful fund, regardless of how much you might be able to contribute. We are all blessed in so many ways, and being able to support a cause so close to home is a great feeling.” 

The Community Foundation is honored to work alongside Tim & Donna, as well to uphold the legacy of Robert & Vera Deal and Mike & Mary Cecil through their meaningful funds. It is a great privilege to connect with donors to bring their philanthropic visions to life in Huntington County.  

Those interested in making a lasting impact in Andrews by contributing toward the fund are invited to donate at huntingtonccf.org/donate. Anyone interested in exploring the numerous fund options available are invited to contact our team.