June 21, 1937 ~ March 21, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Donald (Donnie) of Whitemouth, Manitoba.
He is survived by his wife Karen, sons Paul (Diana) and David (granddaughters Kristen and Leah).
Don was born and raised in Whitemouth where he grew up on the family farm with his two brothers and two sisters.
After high school Don went to work “off farm” trying his hand at different jobs; working for a finance company in Winnipeg and then a trucking contract to haul processed milk for Lucerne from Winnipeg to Kenora. During this time, he realized that the farm was calling, and that education would help him succeed. He graduated from the University of Manitoba with his Diploma in Agriculture in 1965, where he made many life-long “Aggie” friends.
Don met Karen, a new teacher in town, in 1959. They married in 1961. For over 62 years they were at each other’s side. They worked, supported, and cared for one another through everything life sent their way; the many good times and the challenges.
Don took over the farm in 1965 and operated it until 2007, when they retired to town. During this time, they raised their two boys and welcomed many nieces and nephews to work during the summer months. Their dairy farm grew over the years to include a beef herd and more land.
Don was a community minded person his whole life, serving on the Redeemer Lutheran Church Council, as a school trustee, on the Whitemouth Hospital, Community Club and Curling Club Boards.
He served on the Board of Directors for Sunova Credit Union along with many other regional organizations.
He served the residents of the RM of Whitemouth as a Councillor from 1976 – 1980 and as Reeve from 1983 – 1998. He enjoyed every minute.
Don respected everyone he met and so gained the respect and trust of all who knew him. He took the time to listen. He was always ready to help a neighbour.
People from all walks of life would stop in for advice on farming practices, animal husbandry, municipal and political affairs. Some days the farmhouse kitchen or the milking parlour could be mistaken for a coffee shop.
Family, faith, and love of his fellow man were core to Don. Grace before meals and church on Sunday.
The farm or “Uncle Donnie’s farm” was the gathering place for his siblings, in-laws and all the nieces and nephews. There were many gatherings and many, many wonderful memories.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 28, at Sobering Funeral Chapel, Beausejour, MB. Those wishing to remain in their vehicles and listen to the service may do so by parking in the Sobering Funeral Chapel parking lot and tuning your car radio to 98.1 F.M. Interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Don’s memory would be gratefully received by Redeemer Lutheran Church, Whitemouth, MB, or a charity of your choice.
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Dennis Molloy
Donnie was a great attribute to Whitemouth; I remember when he drove a school bus for a time. Karen, I offer you my prayers and thoughts. The sudden loss of your companion may take some time to process. Rely on friends and family for assistance and support. Life can be difficult at times; please reach out to others if all seems bleak and dark. Regards, Dennis Molloy.
Terry & Bill Adams
Dear Karen and family,
It’s been many years since Terry and I were posted with the RCMP in Whitemouth but your family is still fondly remembered when we reminisce about those happy times. Donnie was a true source of knowledge and wisdom; Terry and I were always welcomed into your home. We are saddened to hear of Donnie’s passing and wish you and his family our heartfelt condolences.
Steve & Karen Hetzel
During this Holy Week may the loving arms of our Lord and Savior hold your entire family. May you feel the depth of Jesus’ love. A longer note is coming.
Elmer and Marilyn Mueller
Condolences to Karen and family on losing Donny. He was truly a good neighbor growing up on our dairy farm. Take care from Brandon.
Vivian & Melvin Oswald
We are very sad to learn of Don’s passing. Our heartfelt condolences to Karen and the family. Hugs to all of you.
Dorothy Altstadt
Rest in peace Donnie. Sincere sympathy to Karen. Donnie was a great asset to his community and his lifetime of service will be long remembered. Thank you.
Lucille M Friesen
Oh Karen! Our hearts are touched by your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Henry and Lucille Friesen
Angel Wicharenko
My deepest condolences on Don’s passing to Karen and his family.
Charlene Hood-Ashton
We were saddened to learn of Donnie’s passing. You are remembered with love and fondness. Prayers for Karen, Marie, Ernie, Paul and David.
Carol Ans
Don will forever be remembered for his service and love of his -community and the people in it. A remarkable man. My deep condolences to Karen and family.
Rudie & Esther Friesen
Our condolences to you Karen and Family.
Don will be missed by you, and many others.
Carol Stirrat
Sincere condolences to Karen, the boys and the rest of the family. Donnie’s and Karen’s friendliness and hospitality is a fond memory going back to when our kids were young. Hugs
Corene Antle
Deepest sympathies to you, Karen and your Family on this great loss. Don was always a friendly person uptown and and will be missed by many. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Marlene Merke
Sincere Condolences Karen to you and the boys. I only have fond memories of Don. May he Rest In Peace.
Christian and Corinna Thompson
So sorry for your loss. Deepest condolences to Paul, Diana, and the entire Steiner family.
Jackie Proceviat
My deepest condolences to the Steiner family.
Helen Zajac Waugh
So sorry to hear of Donnie’s passing. Sending condolences & hugs to the whole Steiner family from the Zajac’s.
Bernie and Donna Adam
Heartfelt condolences to you, Paul, Diana and all your family. May the memories of your Dad carry you through the difficult days ahead.
Gerald and Pamela Hawranik
We are very sorry to hear of Don’s passing. Deepest sympathy to Karen and family. He devoted his life to his community. He was deeply respected in the community and beyond. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. Rest in peace, my friend. May God Bless and comfort the family, the community and all who knew him.
Jim & Trudy Steiner
Dear Karen & family
We were deeply saddened when we learned of Don’s passing. He was a real family man, a big supporter of his church & community, & we will truly miss him.
Lois
My heart goes out to you (Karen) and your family. Don was an amazing man and will be thoroughly missed by many. I’ll miss our heart to heart conversations. He was a great mentor. He’ll always be in my thoughts.
You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Lois Malmquist
Dale & Jo Leflar
Our sincerest condolences to Karen & her family as well as all of the Steiner families.
In earlier years we would visit with them at Erica & Ernie’s or even in Whitemouth and
there were always a lot of laughs. Don & Jo shared the same birth date but not the same year.
It is our prayer that you will find comfort in each other as you mourn your loss of him and may those special memories that you have of him keep him close to you in your hearts always.
George en Marian Kints
Our deepest condolences to the Steiner family.
Richard McCalder
Sincere condolences to Karen, Paul and Diana on Don’s passing. I always enjoyed any time I have spent with Don, he was one of the good guys and a great person for the community of Whitemoth and area…and friend to many…
Rick McCalder family
Marilyn Ruta
Donnie was a wonderful member of the community. His many years of service speaks to the type of man he was. He will be missed by many. My sincere condolences to Karen and family.
Les Rohrig
Karen and family,,,,,
Our sincerest condolences on the loss of Donnie,,,,,our thoughts are with you……
Les and Carey