Service Details
Public Visitation: Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home from 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Private Family Service (with military honors): Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association or to one’s favorite charity have been suggested.
Racine – Donnell “Don” K. Petersen, age 73, passed away peacefully early Saturday morning, February 10, 2018 following a brave 6-year struggle with Alzheimer’s.
A lifetime resident, Don was born in Racine on August 10, 1944 to the late Don and Margaret (nee: Krinkey) Petersen. He attended Knapp Elementary & Mitchell Junior High and graduated from Washington Park High School in 1962. Don faithfully served our country active duty with the United States Navy from 1963-65 and continued in the Naval Reserves for an additional 4 years.
On June 27, 1964, Don was united in marriage with the love of his life, Barbara A. (nee: Barnes). He was employed as a systems technician for Wisconsin Bell, AT&T and Lucent Technologies – retiring in 2000. Always on the go, Don enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, archery (life member of Racine Instinctive Bowmen), bowling and golfing. Above all, Don was a true family man who cherished spending time with all of his loved ones.
Surviving are his loving wife and soulmate of nearly 54 years, Barb; their children, Don (Tami) Petersen and Jennifer (Brent Paakola) Petersen; adored grandchildren who affectionately called him “Papa”, Joshua & Zachary Petersen; Miranda, Ben and Paige Paakola; great-grandchildren, Kylar Petersen and Braxton Whitlow; sister, Nancy (Jack) Prudhomme; brother, Lance (Debbie) Petersen; sister-in-law, Bonnie (Bill) Halsey; canine companion, Annie; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Public visitation will be held in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Tuesday evening, February 13, 2018 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. Private interment, with military honors, will be held at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association or to one’s favorite charity have been suggested.
samsolakian@gmail.com says
I am deeply saddened by your loss. I have so many great memories during our junior and high school days when your dad would take us hunting and fishing. I also remember the nights I spent having dinner at the house or just hanging around and how your dad would tell jokes and we would laugh until it hurt. Such good times!
With prayers and sympathy,
Sam Solakian and family
Judy Schroeder, Green Bay, WI says
Barb and family, so sorry to hear of Don’s death. I know he has gone home and is now in a far better place, but I also know that doesn’t make the grief you feel of losing him any less. I will keep him, you Barb and the family in my prayers during this sad and difficult time. Don will be greatly missed by all who knew him and his loving smile. God’s Blessings!
Lennie Juliano. says
I am so sorry to hear about Dons passing He was a great guy. I will not be able to attend the funeral.WE are leaving for Florida this morning Feb 12th.If you ever need help with anything just call me Barb.
Joyce and Dan Malko says
Dear Barb, we are saddened to hear of Don’s passing. As it is so painful to lose Don I’m thankful he did not suffer too long with this debilitating disease. He is at peace now for this I’m grateful. I will never forget his genuine smile from both Don and Annie as they would take their morning walks. For you my friend I pray God guides you through the coming months and years to peace. We are traveling to Arizona right now, but are sending virtual hugs to you and yours. God’s Peace Barb.
Pat Schoff says
I am so sorry to hear of Don’s passing Barb. We will be out of town but please know I am thinking of you and your family. My sincere sympathy and prayers to you and your family. Pat Schoff
Terry Kropp says
To Bonnie and family,
So very sorry for your loss
With sympathy,
Rich & Terry Kropp
Larry and Joy Schabow says
Barbie and family – May all your wonderful memories help you through this difficult time. Don was a good friend, and he will be missed! Sending love and hugs and prayers………
Anonymous says
Dear Barb and Family, I was saddened to hear of Don’s passing. May all your wonderful memories get you through this very difficult time.
RIP Don.
With Sympathy,
Mary Murray
P. M. Gister says
I just heard about Don. Barb, Donny & Jennifer, I am truly sorry for your tremendous loss. Please know you are in our thoughts.