Donald G. Wateski

Donald G. Wateski, 87, of Holmen, died peacefully on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at the Mayo Health System in La Crosse.

He was born on February 10, 1930 in La Crosse to Raymond and Beatrice (O’Dell) Wateski. Don graduated from Aquinas High School in 1948 and was an all-state basketball player.

Don was a Korean War veteran, serving as a Military Policeman in Tokyo, Japan. He had many stories of his military experiences, including driving General Mark Clark. He enjoyed spending endless hours painting. His special friends during his lifetime were his dog Nick, and later his dog Holly. Don was employed by G. Heileman Brewing Co., retiring after a 42-year career. He loved visits from his children and in particular his grandchildren. He would go trick-or-treating with his grandchildren, but never with his children.

Don is survived by his wife, LaVonne; children, Michael (Donna) Wateski, Mary (Thomas) Saphner, and Karen (Timothy) Lucey; step-daughter, Doreen Trapp; nine grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Jeanne (Kihm), and his parents.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Schumacher-Kish Funeral and Cremation Services, 200 West Ave. So., La Crosse. Rev. Lawrence B. Berger will officiate. Burial will take place in the Catholic Cemetery, La Crosse. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday from 9:30 AM until the time of services.