Donald Olander Sr.

Donald J Olander Sr., age 87, passed away peacefully, March 2, 2016 surrounded by his family at Sharon S. Richardson Hospice. Donald was born June 18, 1928 in Racine WI to Eric and Francis Olander. He was a 1946 graduate of Horlick High School in Racine Wisconsin. He attended the Milwaukee Teachers College graduating in 1950. On August 12th, 1950 Donald married his high school sweetheart Shirley and in the fall, Shirley and Don moved to Sheboygan, where they lived for the past 65 years. Donald and Shirley recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on August 12th 2015 with family and friends. Donald was a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, friend and willing servant of the Lord. He dedicated his life to serving others. He was a teacher and guidance counselor in the Sheboygan School system for 40 years. He loved his job dearly, enjoying the challenges of each and every day, touching the lives of hundreds of students. Donald experienced life to the fullest. He was a passionate outdoorsman, and active conservationist. He spent countless hours of hunting and fishing with his sons and grandsons. He taught three generations the art of fishing, He truly enjoyed his time Up North. fishing and having fun. He was an avid golfer having achieved two hole-in-ones. Don will always be remembered for his days as leader of the OGC (Old Guys Club) either on the golf course or having breakfast. He was never at loss for a good joke. The friendships he made will follow him forever. Donald and his wife Shirley served both church and community tirelessly. Don gave more than 200 hours of service to local hospitals and nursing homes by providing the Holy Eucharist to those unable to attend church. Don and Shirley were advocates for the Mental Health Association directing their attention to child abuse. He also served on the board of directors for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. They never turned down an opportunity to serve the church and their community. Donald is survived by his three sons; Michael (Peggie) Olander of Oconomowoc Wisconsin, Donald Jr. Olander of Wildrose WI, Christopher (Jennifer) Olander of Randolph, two daughters, Martha Olander of Sheboygan, and Catherine (Terrance) Van Treeck of Sheboygan Falls. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren Robert (Shannon) Olander, Paul (Fiance Raechel) Olander, Aaron Van Treeck, Austin Van Treeck (Girlfriend Sydney Church), Megan Olander, Chelsea Olander, Alicia Olander, and Jill Olander. Donald was blessed to have three great-grandchildren, Stephen, Jonathan, and Christian Olander. He is further survived by his sister-in-law Colleen (Richard) Wallis and brother-in-law Ronald Ashenfelter and also by many nieces, nephews as well as great-nieces and great- nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Eric and Frances Olander, his brother Richard (killed in World War II) his wife, Shirley, his sister-in-law Wanda Ashenfelter, nephew Peter Geyer, and many friends and relatives.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, March 10, 2016, at 12:00 Noon at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church 807 Superior Ave, Sheboygan, presided by Father Matthew Widder and Father James Connell. Inurnment will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will take place on Thursday March 10th, 2016 from 10:00 AM until 12:00 Noon at the CHURCH. IN HONOR OF OUR DADS LOVE OF THE OUTDOORS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO WEAR YOUR FAVORTE HUNTING, FISHING, OR GOLF HAT TO THE SERVICE. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made be made to the Maryknoll Missions in Dons memory by visiting Maryknoll.org. or by sending a check to Maryknoll Missionaries, PO Box 302, Maryknoll, NY 10545.
The family would like to say Thank you to the staff at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice for all of their care, compassion and support.