Donald E. Garner

On June 21, 2024, Donald Edward Garner passed away peacefully with his family surrounding him with all their love.

Born in Niles, MI to Virgil and Mildred Garner he lived most of his life in Dubuque, IA, the Fox Valley and of late, Mountain, WI.

He was a lifelong car and motorcycle enthusiast, attending car shows whenever he could fit it in to his busy schedule.

He worked fulltime at Sweetheart Bakery in Dubuque while also attending high school. Career choices included National T Grocery and Dubuque Packing Co where he won many sales awards for his hard work and dedication to his customers. As the original owner of Kaukauna Meats Inc. with his wife, Nancy Jo, He devoted all his time to the service of others.

During his 80 years on this earth, Don bettered the lives of countless people, seeing someone’s need and stepping in to help however he could. Don volunteered at community Christmas dinners, drove people to doctor appointments, delivered meals to the shut-in during COVID, stocked shelves at the Lakewood Food Pantry and helped with area fundraisers as a member of the local Parrot Head Club. He was a treasured member of the community wherever he was living.

He was best friend to many, loved by all who knew him for his big smile and great sense of humor.

He was a treasured son, brother, father, grandpa, and great grandpa. For 40 years, he was the best husband ever.

Donald is survived by his wife, Nancy Jo Garner; children: Kerry Garner, Donald Garner, Aaron Garner; grandchildren: Zac Shepard, Lucas and Jackson Garner, Lexi Van Schyndel, Paige (Dylan) Hibbard, Owen Garner; great grandchildren: Gage, Melody, Graham; siblings: Jean Berendes, Jerry (Penni) Garner, James (Mary) Garner, Daniel (Judy) Garner, David (Kathe) Garner. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Mildred Garner; grandson, Sidney Garner; sisters: Judith (Carl) Stoneking, Diane (Calvin) Courtright; brother-in-law, Floyd Berendes; and sister-in-law, Janet Garner.

His family cannot thank enough the outstanding members of the ThedaCare Hospital and Cancer Center teams of Appleton and the Fox Valley Surgical team.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please continue his legacy by donating to the American Cancer Society, the ThedaCare Foundation, and your local food pantry.

Volunteer wherever and whenever you can and when you see someone who needs a smile, share yours

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.