Donald Paul Zentner, 65, of Spring Valley, WI, passed away on September 4, 2024, at Durand Hospital. Born on April 13, 1959, in St. Paul, MN, to Lowell and Josette (Boonhower) Zentner, Donald’s journey through life was marked by his deep love for family, community, and a multitude of passions.
Donald grew up in the close-knit community of Rock Elm Township, Pierce County, Wisconsin, where he attended Elmwood High School and proudly graduated with the Class of 1978. From a young age, Donald was known for his vibrant spirit and unwavering dedication to those around him. His love for Harley Davidson motorcycles was legendary, and his mechanical prowess was unmatched; there was nothing he could not fix, but it was working on cars that truly brought him joy.
Donald enjoyed gardening and lawn care, while his affection for animals shone through in his role as a devoted 4H leader, showcasing rabbits and ferrets alongside his children. His community spirit extended to 4H softball. The annual Pierce County Fair was a highlight of his year, a tradition he cherished and supported with unwavering enthusiasm.
The serene moments he spent at Big Blake Lake in northern Wisconsin were some of his fondest memories, often shared with his beloved brother Dean and other close family members. Donald’s dreams of retirement included living full-time by the lake during the summer and exploring the United States in a camper during the winter, a testament to his adventurous spirit and deep love for the outdoors.
He really enjoyed spending the holidays with family being the first one to arrive coming into the kitchen and picking at the foods before the official meal would start and then of course the hours of euchre playing partnering with his brother Mike, being exasperated by his sister Mary’s playing techniques followed by board games long into the night.
Donald’s diverse career path spanned manufacturing, welding, and railroading, reflecting his boundless abilities and interests. His prowess in the kitchen was equally impressive; his chili was the stuff of family legend, sharing his talents at the St. Croix Valley Riders Chili Feed, where he also did security. He was a proud member of the St. Croix Valley Rider’s Motorcycle club for many years. Whether hunting, fishing, video gaming, or watching wrestling and truck pulls, Donald’s zest for life was evident in every activity he pursued. Most of all Don was a very loving father, grandfather and brother. He was extremely proud of his family.
Donald was a man who held his country close to his heart. He is survived by his siblings: Mary (Gary Thom) Lofgren, Dean (Lisa) Weber, Mike (Patty) Zentner, and Dottie Turrittin; his children: Tiffany (Matt) Most-McMcintosh and Jasmun (Jay) Hoyer; and his cherished grandchildren: Seth, Kaitlan Mae, and Breann; along with numerous nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends. He is also remembered fondly by his sisters-in-law, Shirley Weber and Cindy Weber. Donald was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Jeremy Most; and siblings: Dick Weber, Keith Weber, Pat Robelia, and his infant twin sister, Connie Elaine Zentner.
A Celebration of Life to honor Donald’s remarkable journey will be held at a later date.
Services are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ellsworth. For more information, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-273-4421.