Donald Joseph Stifler (84) was many things through the course of his life. He was a championship baseball player, a businessman, a writer, a photographer, a Scout Master, he played tennis and golf, and he was a clubhouse comedian, but most people will probably remember him as a man with a huge heart, a loud laugh and a love for life. Don had more best friends than just about anyone, and his passing will surely leave a void in each of their lives.
In addition to all of the above, though, he was most importantly a loving son, brother, husband, uncle, father and grandfather.
Don was born November 11, 1936 moments before his twin brother Jerry, and thirteen years before their brother Mike, both of whom he leaves behind. They were raised Detroit Tigers fans in Dearborn, Michigan by their departed parents Winola and Edward Reese Stifler.
Don attended Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. He then called Illinois home for the better part of two decades before settling in Wausau, Wisconsin to start his own business in the early 1980s. He called Wausau home until he retired to Minocqua, where he resided until his passing. If you find yourself up that way, stop in at Jacobi's in Hazelhurst, ask if the stool at the end of the bar is taken, and tell them Uncle Don sent you.
He leaves behind five sons and their spouses, Jim (Karin), Tom (Linda), Mike (Meg), John and Matt (Jayme), and ten grandchildren (Nate, Colin, Ryan, Paul, Emmett, Miles, Clara, Henry, Cohen and Marlowe) all of whom love him deeply and will miss him immensely. He was also looking forward to meeting his first great-grandson, Reese, due in April.
Donald J Stifler was a man of strong faith and conviction. Through the course of his religious life he served as a Deacon at First Presbyterian, a CCD Teacher at St Marks Catholic and a Teacher at Saint Anthony's Retreat Center. While in the end his body gave way to a consuming cancer and acute kidney failure, he has departed this earth a whole man, filled with the love and grace of his Lord.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Marcie Hauser and Linda Pelletier, as well as Billy and Nancy Schilling who provided Don with special care throughout his illness. They would also like to thank everyone from Ascension Hospice Home Care, Minocqua and Aspirus Hospice House, Wausau for their care and comfort during his final days.
As Don's family and friends are spread far and wide, due to COVID there will not be a formal service. The family asks that you gather however you see fit to celebrate his life. If you would like to do something in his memory, consider making a donation to Ascension Hospice Minocqua, Aspirus Hospice House Wausau, or his favorite charitable organization, The Lakeland Food Pantry in Arbor Vitae.