Donald was born in 1920 to Charles and Grace (Barker) Schlottman. He married Rose McGale in 1943. They had four children, Fredrick, Dwight, Craig and Carolyn. During World War II, he was a typist for General Dwight Eisenhower and typed messages as to the status of the war. In his later years (as long as he was physically able) he and his wife would travel around the country to what they would call 'Eisenhower Reunions.' He was also a member of the SHAEF Veterans Association Alumni, and traveled to all but the last two reunions. His interest in World War II continued until his death.