Donald Meister was born to Charles and Ruth (nee Schmeckle) Meister on Jan. 2, 1931 in Geneva Township and died at the age of 93.
Don married Loretta (nee Aden) of rural South Dakota on July 13, 1955 at First Lutheran Church in Lake Geneva where he had been a lifelong member.
On Aug. 17 1948, Don enlisted in the Wisconsin National Guard where he served for 42 years in both the Active and Reserve Components. During his service he was twice elected President of the Wisconsin National Guard Enlisted Association. He participated in several assignments in Germany and was the recipient of many awards and decorations for his service.
After leaving the service, Don was employed by the City of Burlington as a Community Service Officer where he served for 10 years. He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fishermen. Don always gave of himself so others could enjoy doing the same activities. He was a charter Hunter Safety Instructor for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources with over 1000 student graduates to his credit.
Don was preceded in death by his wife Loretta. He is survived by his daughter Lynnette Chadwick of New Berlin, his son Barry Meister of Plover, his grandson Benjamin Chadwick of Milwaukee, and his son-in-law Jeff Jacobson of New Berlin.
In lieu of money, Don would like memorial donations to be made to the Alpha One Foundation.
Services for Don will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024 at 3 p.m. in the main chapel of Derrick Funeral Home. Visitation will be held prior to the service starting at 1 p.m. Burial will be at Southeastern Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery at a later date.
Well-wishers may visit www.derrickfuneralhome.com.