Obituary of Donald L. Milka

Donald L. Milka, age 77, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away Friday, November 17, 2017, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Don was born October 5, 1940, in Marshfield, WI, to Louis and Myra (Dunow) Milka.  He grew up on the family farm in the town of Eau Pleine, WI.  He attended Victory School and graduated from PJ Jacobs High School.

Don married Joan Boyles on October 19, 1963, at the Moravian Church in Rudolph, WI.  They were blessed with 54 years of marriage.
Don worked for Nekoosa Edwards Paper Company in the Shipping Department at the Port Edwards mill for 35 years.

Don was a very talented “handyman.”  He was skilled at building things and did several remodeling projects on his home including additions, a workshop, a gazebo, and a deck.  He was always willing to help other family members with their home-improvement projects.  Don also liked to work with anything that had a motor.  He built a 1939 Jaguar kit car and restored several antique tractors.  He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting deer with his bow and black powder rifle.  In earlier years, Don and Joan enjoyed taking motorcycle trips with their children to area bluegrass festivals. 

No sketch of his life would be complete without the mention of Don’s steadfast faith in the saving grace of Jesus Christ which he loved to share with anyone God brought across his path.  Don “walked the talk,” humbly influencing the lives of those around him.  He left a legacy of integrity, strength of character, and faith.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Joan, two children: Todd Milka and Lori Jo (Brian) Turner, two grandchildren: Paige (Brandon) Becker and Nathan Turner, and two great-grandchildren: Koby and     Mia Jo Becker, all of Wisconsin Rapids; and a sister, Dorothy (Wayne) Stoflet of Combined Locks, Wisconsin.  He is preceded in death by his parents.

Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, November 27, 2017, at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids.  Rev. Dean Anderson will officiate.  Burial will be at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 P.M. on Sunday, November 26, and from 10:00 A.M. until the time of services on Monday at the funeral home.  Herman-Taylor Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a memorial which will be established at a later date.
 

Don’s family would like to thank the staff at Aspirus Wausau Hospital for their kindness and compassion.