Donald L Phetridge

Donald L. Mac Phetridge passed away on Tuesday, April 17, 2012 at the Hillview Health Care Center in La Crosse. Don was born on November 14, 1930 in La Crosse to William and Evelyn Mac Phetridge. He attended Elm Grove Elementary and Central High School. During his school years he worked at Jambois Grocery, Arentz Shoe Store and Hebbard Drug Store. In 1950 he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving our country at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, Parks Air Force Base in Hayward, California and in Argentia, Newfoundland. He was honorably discharged in 1953 and was in the inactive reserves for several years. Don began employment at Northern States Power Co. in 1954 and retired in 1988. Upon his retirement he delivered flowers for the Apple Tree Flowers in La Crescent for 13 years, and really enjoyed working for Judy. His hobbies were playing banjo, but most of all, being the perfectionist he was, he loved to manicure his lawn. Don also enjoyed going for coffee and visiting with his many friends, and upon his return, was duty bound to keep the bird feeders filled which proved to be great entertainment for him. His main goal in life was to satisfy his loving wife, Betty Ann (Young), whom he married September 10, 1955, and lucky for the Youngs, Don played an integral part in their life, caring for them in their golden years, as well as Betty Anns last years. Don was raised to the sublime degree of master mason in 1967 in Lodge 190. He was also a 32thndth degree mason. He participated in many Shrine functions and was a member of the Zor Oriental Band. He was a 50 year member of the American Legion, a member of Electrical Workers Union #953 and a life member of the Onalaska Historical Society. He was also a member of the Onalaska long range planning commission for several years. He was a dedicated and loyal employee faithful to those he affiliated with.

Don is survived by a brother David, two sisters Nancy Quall and Mary Ellen Arlt, six nephews, one niece, a special friend Olga Hoesley and close friends Doug (Becky) Stinson and Kathy Jostad. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Betty Ann.

Dons wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 21, 2012 at the Schumacher Kish Funeral Home, 200 West Ave. S., La Crosse. Pastor Justin Halbersma will officiate. Private burial will take place at a later date. Friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday from 10 AM until the time of service.