Donald R. Glander, age 83, of West Bend, passed away Tuesday October 14, 2008 at Kathy Hospice.
He was born on July 2, 1925 in West Bend to the late Paul and Thelma (nee Wornardt) Glander, and graduated from West Bend High School in the class of 1943. Don then attended Northwestern University for a short time before deciding to play semi pro baseball. After several years an injury forced Don to change careers.
On June 10, 1950 Don was united in marriage to Ruth Kircher at St. Mary's Immaculate Conception Parish. Together they made their home in Random Lake, where Don worked for Wisconsin Electric for 30 years, retiring in 1987. In 1989 Don and Ruth moved back to West Bend.
While living in Random Lake Don was a member of the Lions Club, the Village Board, coached little league, and played slow pitch softball. He was an avid baseball and football fan, enjoyed hunting, and golfing.
Don is survived by his wife, Ruth; three children, Judy (Rick) Becker of Clintonville, Deborah (Jeff) Krier of Random Lake, and Michael (Cindy) Glander of Fredonia; seven grandchildren, Josh Becker, Erin (David) Burchett, Matthew (Amy) Krier, Michael Krier, Kristin (Marcus) Kleinhans, Kelly (special friend Douglas Hartmann) Glander, and Justin Glander; a great-grandson, Kennedy Kleinhans; a sister-in-law, Rita Lenz of West Bend; a brother-in-law, Bernard Wagner of West Bend; Don's special companion "Babe"; other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Howard and his wife Darlene; a sister-in-law, Margie Wagner; and a brother-in-law, Oscar Lenz.
A Memorial Mass in remembrance of Don will be held on Friday October 17th at 5:30 pm at St. Mary's Immaculate Conception Church. Rev. Michael Moran will be the celebrant. Visitation with the family will be Friday at the church only from 4:00 pm until the time of Mass. Inurnment of Don's cremated remains will be in Washington County Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials maybe given to the Full Shelf Food Pantry or St. Mary's School. Myrhum ~ Patten Funeral & Cremation Service is assisting the family.