Danny Ray Tolar, Sr.

ASHEVILLE – Danny R. Tolar, Sr., age 78, of Asheville, passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Brookdale at Walden Ridge in Asheville.

Danny was born on December 10, 1946, in Lumberton, NC. He grew up in Rowland, NC, and graduated from Rowland High School in 1964. During his school years, he enjoyed playing multiple sports and excelled in both football and basketball. His love of athletics continued throughout his life, both as an active participant and an enthusiastic spectator.

After high school, Danny earned an associate’s degree in civil engineering and later completed a bachelor’s degree in business. From 1969 to 1971, he proudly served in the United States Army with the 52nd Engineering Battalion at Fort Carson in Colorado.

Danny built a fulfilling career as a civil engineer with the North Carolina Department of Transportation while also serving as the owner and surveyor of his firm, Danny R. Tolar & Associates.

For many years, Danny took great joy in watching the UNCA basketball teams play. Annual fishing trips to Canada with his brother and close friends were among his most cherished traditions. He also loved hiking and enjoyed many trips to National Parks and throughout the mountains of western North Carolina.

Danny was a devoted member of the loving family of Newbridge Baptist Church.

He was the son of the late Ray and Sudie Tolar and was also preceded in death by his brother, Terry Keith Tolar.

Surviving are his wife, Donna Tolar, whom he married in 1968; his son, Danny Ray Tolar, Jr.; his daughter, Kristy Elliott; and his grandson, Charlie Elliott.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Newbridge Baptist Church, 199 Elkwood Avenue, Asheville, NC 28804, with Rev. Clark Henderson and Rev. Dr. Brian Buckner officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the church, prior to the service.

Those desiring to make memorial contributions are encouraged to consider Mountain Aging Partners – Adult Daycare, 5 Oak St., Asheville, NC 28801; or Memory Care, 100 Far Horizons Ln., Asheville, NC 28803.

West Family Funeral Services is honored to be serving the Tolar family. Condolences may be offered under his obituary at the funeral home’s website. www.westfamilyfuneralservices.com.