Donald R. Christenson
Oct. 20, 1942 - Sept. 8, 2024
Donald R. Christenson was a beloved husband, dedicated father, and loving grandfather. He left us peacefully surrounded by his family, on September 8, 2024, at the age of 81.
Don was born October 20, 1942, in Milwaukee to Rudolph and Gladys Christenson. He and his brother, Jerry, grew up in Black River Falls, WI, but lived most of his life in Oconomowoc, WI. He attended Oconomowoc High School where he loved playing basketball and met the love of his life, Donna Peebles, whom he later married and recently celebrated 59 years of marriage. Don is survived by his brother Jerry, wife Donna, his two loving children, David (Jenny) of St. Paul, MN, and Darla (Aaron) of Lake Elmo, MN, along with his three beloved grandchildren, Max, Ethan and Clara. He will be missed by so many nieces, nephews and other loving family and friends.
Don attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he earned his degree in Sociology and later received his master’s degree. Upon his graduation, Don and Donna were married in June 1965. Don worked as a Probation & Parole Officer for the State of Wisconsin for several years working often with inner-city youth in Milwaukee, then for the Wales School for Boys, and most of his career as the school social worker for the Germantown High School. Upon his retirement of 25 years in the school district, he received the “Teacher of the Year” Award, as a tribute to the impact he had made on so many students’ lives.
In addition to the passion for his career, “Captain” Don loved his fulfilling life on the lake with Donna and his two children, whom he loved so dearly. Their home in the village of Lac La Belle hosted many family reunions and other parties that provided so many wonderful family memories including the summer “Grandpa Camps” for the grandkids.
Don was a sports enthusiast and an outdoorsman who enjoyed Badgers and Marquette games, hunting, and most of all loved fishing. As an avid fisherman, he had many adventures, stories, and also a Let’s Go Fishing Guide Service. He often said, “A bad day on the lake was better than good day in the office!”
In 2017, Don and Donna, boats and 4-wheeler in tow moved to Hudson, Wisconsin, to be closer to their children and grandchildren. They were able to enjoy many of the kids’ activities, sporting events, celebrations, and a whole lot of laughter. Don’s grandchildren meant everything to him ... he was their biggest mentor, supporter and fan.
Don’s life was full of blessings, and he made a positive impact on so many. He was admired for his determination, strong character, and always fulfilling his family obligations as our caretaker - so often with a dash of humor! Don’s love will forever reside in our hearts, and we take comfort knowing he is pain-free. Although we are sad he’s missing on earth, in heaven we know he’s just “gone fishing.”
A celebration of Don’s life will take place at Pagenkopf Funeral Home on Saturday, September 21. Visitation will be from 10:00 am - 11:30 am, with the service immediately following. Don will be laid to rest at Glenview Memorial Gardens following the service.
Pagenkopf Funeral Home is serving the family. For more information, call 262-567-4457 or visit .