Donald Joseph Roth

Donald J. Roth, 95, of La Crosse, passed away Tuesday, November 8, 2016 at Eagle Crest North, Onalaska. He was born May 18, 1921, in La Crosse, to Arthur and Rose (Ender) Roth. Don was a lifelong resident of La Crosse. He graduated from Aquinas High School in 1939. In WWll, he was a reconnaissance sergeant and a tank commander in the 69th Infantry Regiment, Anti-tank Company, known as the "Fighting 69th". He fought in battles in the Ardennes Forest (Battle of the Bulge), Rhineland and Central Europe. He earned many medals and awards including a Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
Don married the love of his life, Bernice Zimmerman, on May 30, 1944. They had four children, Pamela, Janet, Rose Mary and Steve. When he returned from the war, Don worked as a salesman for the Kraft Cheese Company. He owned Don Roth's Groceries at 7th and State; was territory manager for the Cities Service Oil Company; and from 1965 - 1989, worked in the sales department of WKTY Radio, where he was affectionately known around town as "the whistler."
Don had lots of hobbies and could always be found working on something in his workshop. His quaint bird houses are treasured by all his friends and family. He was always there to help anyone who needed help. He was an active member of Holy Trinity parish and a long-time usher at the Cathedral. He and his family and friends all enjoyed the fun times they spent relaxing at the Roth cottage on Shore Acres. Don always looked forward to the times he could spend with his children and grandchildren.
Don is survived by his children Pamela Cain of St Paul MN; Janet (Dave) Morris of Whitehall; Rose Mary (Terry) Bowersock of Plainwell MI; and Steve (Leslie) Roth of Holmen. His grandchildren, Patrick, Sarah, Angela and Jason Cain; Megan Link; Nathan, Zach and Laurel Bowersock; Shane Roth; Morgan and Amber Maly; and his great-grandchildren, Siena, Sebastian, Mason, Mia, Maverick, Parker and Ronan. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Bernice; his son-in-law, John Cain; his parents Arthur and Rose Roth; and his sisters, Arlene Johnson and Virginia Hammes.
Don's family would like to thank Dr. David Momont, and the entire staff of Eagle Crest's memory care unit for the loving, compassionate care they gave to Don while he lived there.
Family and friends may call between 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Friday, November 11th at Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home, 200 West Ave S., La Crosse, followed by a 2:00 PM Mass of Christian Burial at the Cathedral of St Joseph the Workman. Msgr. Charles Stoetzel will celebrate. Burial will follow at the Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Chileda, The Gundersen Foundation or a charity of your choice.