Donald Richard Beese

Donald Richard Beese was born on December 28, 1935, in Wausau to the late John and Louetta (Helke) Beese. Donald died unexpectedly at home watching his favorite RFD shows on Saturday, April 12, 2025, with his wife Gladys by his side.

Don grew up in Wausau attending G.D. Jones school and Wausau High School. He joined the United States Navy in his senior year of high school, serving four years and getting his high school diploma in 1957 after getting out of the service. Don was a great dancer and had his first date with his wife at the Colonial Ballroom. He married the love of his life, Gladys Koepp, on October 17, 1959.

Don was involved with the local Iron Workers Union at Hartwig Manufacturing and worked his way to lead man. During those years he served as President of the Union and went to New York for convention and even shook hands with Cassius Clay. He and Gladys were members of the American Legion Montgomery-Plant-Dudley Post 10 where he worked through the chairs to Commander and County Commander. They both attended many state conventions as well as national conventions.

Don and Gladys loved to watch their grandchildren’s sporting events and tried to get to as many events as they could from elementary to college. Don was a true Packer’s fan and has a large memorabilia collection of his favorite team. He also loved TV, especially the old shows, such as Perry Mason, Carol Burnett, Matlock and Hogan’s Hero’s to name a few.

Don is survived by his wife of 65 years Gladys; son, Rick (Melissa); and daughter, Kathy (Tom) Oliva; four grandchildren, Kelly (Benton) Rose, Sarah (Tom) Fisher, Samantha (Luke) Elfering and Paul Oliva. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Brynleigh and Audrey Rose, Grayson Fisher, Rory and Callahan Elfering, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, John Beese Jr.; and great-granddaughter, Olivia Rose.

Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, April 18, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 501 Stewart Avenue, Wausau. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of service at the church. Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau, where Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Montgomery-Plant-Dudley Post 10 Honor Guard.

The family would like to give special thanks to the Marathon County Sheriff’s Department and the SAFER Paramedics team for the care given to Don and his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church or to a charity of your choice made in Don’s honor.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the family with arrangements. You may sign the family guest book at www.ascendweston.org.