Donald Joseph Jelinski, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away on Friday, March 17, 2023, due to heart failure at the age of 81.

Don was born on April 28, 1941, to Joseph and Regina (Osypowski) Jelinski. He grew up attending Galloway Grade School in the 1940s era of America. As a teenager in the 1950s, Don was a varsity athlete, lettering in football (all-star), wrestling, and track and field at Wittenberg High School. He graduated in 1960 and continued to be active throughout his life, playing softball in Galloway, golfing, hunting, and fishing. On November 12, 1966, Don married his sweetheart and best friend, Geraldine "Geri" Schulist, at St. Adalbert's Catholic Church in Rosholt, WI.

Don joined the Army National Guard in the 1960s, during a time of political and social change in the United States. He retired from the Army National Guard after 21 years of service, holding the rank of 1st Sergeant, 1st Battalion, 120th Field Artillery. Known as the "Red Fox Regiment," the motto is "Eager to Assist." He was proud of the time spent serving his country and was a member of the American Legion.

Don worked as a driver at Copps Food Distribution for 36 years, where he made many friends at every store he visited.

Don is survived by his wife of 56 years, Geraldine (Schulist) Jelinski; their two children, Bryan Jelinski and Tamara (Steven) McLean; three grandchildren, Collin Jelinski, Max McLean, and Gavin McLean; his sister Mary (Dan) Newby; and in-laws Diane (Darrell) Hawley, Beverly (John) Rice, Bonnie (Bob) Ferkey, Arlene (Larry) Kizewski, Joan (Jerry) Hubbard, Larry (Lisa) Schulist, Tim (Kelly) Schulist, (Tom) Hanson and many nieces and nephews who he appreciated.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Regina Jelinski; in-laws Edmund and Lorraine (Kleman) Schulist; step-father-in-law Emil Burclaw; and sister-in-law MaryAnn Hanson.

Dad's life was filled with family gatherings, laughter, and many years of travel with Mom, throughout the United States and Europe. He was a man of faith who always put his family first. Dad was quick with his wit, slow to anger, and always ready to help. He was known as our "go-to guy," His response to any request was always, "What do you need?" Followed by, "I'm on my way."

Dad will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of many. He was a loyal fan of the Packers, Brewers, Bucks, and Badgers. One week before his passing, Dad spent time with us, telling jokes and laughing around the kitchen table. We will miss his kind heart and unwavering love.

Family and friends may visit Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Family, 1307 Lourdes Avenue, De Pere, beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 30, 2023. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. James Baraniak, O.Praem. officiating. Full Military Honors will follow. Burial will take place at Mount Calvary Cemetery at 2:00 p.m.