Donald Waletzko, 76

Donald Anthony Waletzko, 76, passed away at his home in Alexandria, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, January 5, 2013 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was a loving and devoted husband, supportive and caring father, brother and proud grandpa.

Don was born December 26, 1936 in Willow River to Julius and Wilhemina (Purell) Waletzko. Don grew up in Willow River and graduated from high school there in 1954. He went on to his pre-dentistry study at the Duluth branch of the U of M and at St Thomas and later became a graduate of the U of M School of Dentistry, where he received his degree in 1961. After receiving his degree, he and Donna Koenig were married and they moved to Ft. Carson, Colorado, where he served two years in the Army. Don and Donna then moved to Marshall, where they raised their four children and lived for nearly 40 years.

While in Marshall, Don not only built a successful dental practice, but was also extremely active in professional and local civic organizations. He held numerous offices in the Chamber of Commerce and Jaycees including president and state director and earned a Distinguished Service Award for his many contributions to the community.

Most importantly, Don had a deep faith in God and was a very active member of the Holy Redeemer Church and served on the Parish Council. When he retired in 2002, he and his wife Donna moved “up to the Lake” in Alexandria, except for the cold winters when he and Donna escaped to sunny Arizona, and he continued his most loved hobbies of gardening, golfing, cooking and spending time with family and friends. In Alexandria at St Mary’s Catholic Church and in Fountain Hills, AZ at Church of the Ascension, he remained strong in his faith in God and became active in both church communities.

Don’s life was filled with laughter and strong relationships with his golf buddies, Bible study groups, neighbors, relatives and of course his family. He was ever present in their lives and loved them all so much.

Don is survived by his wife of 51 years, Donna; his sons, David (Nancy), Steve (Lisa), Paul; daughter, Ann Marie (John Marshall); 10 grandchildren, Jacob, Megan, Katie, Ben, Becca, Cole, Jeffrey, Erin, Ella and Sophie; and sister, Marlene (Jim Sullivan).

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, January 11 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 420 Irving Street, Alexandria.

Visitation is Thursday, January 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. with parish prayers at 7 p.m. and a KC Rosary to follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alexandria, and one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.

Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

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