Obituary of Donald R. Waite

Donald Rowell Waite, age 82, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away at home in Wisconsin Rapids on April 13th, 2016. Donald's final wishes were to be cremated, with no services or visitation. To honor his wishes the family will hold interment services with military honors at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at http://www.taylorfuneralhome.net/obituaries/. Donald Rowell Waite was born October 11th, 1933 in the City of Milwaukee to Glenn and Grace (Rowell) Waite. Upon graduating from high school, Don joined the United States Navy in 1951. Don served aboard the USS Oriskany (CV-34) and was a Korean War veteran (1951-1954). Upon leaving the United States Navy, Don performed a variety of jobs, most notably as a service repairman for Preway, Inc. in Wisconsin Rapids until its closing in 1987. Don later worked for WalMart in Wisconsin Rapids. Don always enjoyed spending time with his family and golfing with friends. Don also enjoyed watching the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers. Don was a wonderful father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He enjoyed reading and watching his favorite television shows. Don would prefer that those who remember him, celebrate his life and the many things he was able to do with his short time on earth, as opposed to mourning his passing. Don will be remembered for his devotion to family, love of country, and he will be deeply missed. Don is survived by his wife Jane of Wisconsin Rapids; son Mitchell of Wisconsin Rapids; son Bradley of Wisconsin Rapids; daughter Allyson Ward (Kevin) of Madison; half-sister Ellen (William) Weaver of Sun City, Arizona; step-brother John (Carol) Lagerquist of Green Bay; granddaughter Alexia of Wisconsin Rapids; great granddaughter Kayleigh of Wisconsin Rapids; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Jeffrey. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don's name to the Gary Sinise Foundation https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/.