Donald Keeser

Donald "Donnie" Keeser, age 76, of Merrill, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, February 19, 2015. He was born April 9, 1938 in Watertown, WI to the late Louis and Mabel (Martin) Keeser. On September 17, 1960 he married the love of his life, Darlene Schult in Merrill. She survives. Don attended school in Watertown. He worked for Crosby Square Shoe Factory in Watertown before moving to Merrill in 1960. In Merrill, Don worked at the Old Lincoln Mill, Weinbrenner Shoe Factory and finally at Wire Products manufacturing where he retired as a foreman after 30 years. Needing something to do in retirement, he worked as a chef for Schult's Country Inn for more than 20 years. Don also farmed on his 120 acres. While working as a chef, he earned the nickname "The Soup Man" as he made delicious soup. People who saw Don on the street would complement him on his great cooking ability. He enjoyed cooking for family and always made sure everyone got enough to eat. Don enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time in the woods and making venison sausage with his grandchildren. He was a great man who would give someone the shirt off his back if they needed it. Don always made you laugh with his funny jokes and had a natural ability to make you feel welcome in his home. He loved to tell stories about how he grew up and was always there when someone needed a hand. Don was a loving husband and father and looked forward to every family cookout or gathering. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. Survivors include his wife of 54 years; Darlene Keeser, of Merrill; five daughters: Peggy (Mark) Brecke, Stetsonville, WI, Polly (Martin) Pintor, Merrill, Pamela (Andrew) Keeser-Ortiz, Parker, CO, Patricia (Stan) Wendt and Paula (Timothy) Frahm, all of Merrill; nine grandchildren: Mathew (Stephanie), Terin, Martin, Vanessa, Caeden, McKinze, Justin, Derek and Emily; nine step-grandchildren: Chris B, Steph B, MicKayla, Chris O, Joshua, Rachel, Steph O, Bobby and Allyssa; one great-grandson: Roman Rampart; one sister: Georgie (Ralph) Kusel, Watertown, WI and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, mother and father-in-law, and one grandson, Louie. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, February 23, 2015 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Town of Corning. Rev. Joel Danner will officiate. Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 22 from 4-8 PM at Waid Funeral Home and again Monday from 9:30 AM until the time of service at the church. Burial will follow in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred and will be determined at a later date. The family would like to say a special thank you to Pastor Danner, Paul Proulx and the Town of Corning First Responders for their outstanding service and professionalism. Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

---

Previous Events

Visitation
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Visitation
Monday, February 23, 2015

---