Donald “Don” N. Behnke Jr.
Donald (Don) N. Behnke Jr., 78, of Neshkoro, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 28, at Hospice Home of Hope, Fond du Lac, with his family by his side.
He was born July 24, 1940, to Donald and Caroline (Lifke) Behnke of Mayville.
Don was united in marriage to Judy (Plansky) on April 8, 1961, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mayville.
Don graduated from Mayville High School in 1958.
For many years he enjoyed a career as a carpenter. His talent allowed him to build the house where he raised his family and lived for 33 years in Burnett. He was always happy to share his carpentry talent to help family and friends.
As a young man, Don worked with his father in the bulk milk hauling business, Behnke Trucking. In1977,Don purchased Behnke Trucking from his parents making it a third generation family business. He expanded the business to two quad axle milk trucks and eventually two quad axle dump trucks. He and his father happily served Wisconsin dairy farmers for over a century In 1999, Don sold Behnke Trucking Inc. so he could enjoy retirement.
Don was a volunteer firefighter for Burnett and an avid golfer. He loved taking his 1965 Mustang to car shows placing first many times. Don and Judy retired to their dream home in Neshkoro on Silver Springs Lake where they enjoyed giving family and friends rides on their pontoon. Don especially loved fishing with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
During the winter months, Don and Judy enjoyed the warmer temperatures in Sun City, AZ.
Don was a kind person and a great listener who was always willing to give his advice and lend a helping hand to his family and friends. He was well loved by everyone and will be sadly missed.
Don is survived by his wife, Judy of 58 years, four children, Jeff (Carrie) Behnke, Scott Behnke, Lisa Cole, Lori (Curt) Loeffler; seven grandchildren, Emily, Preston, Joe (Keeley), Julia, Logan, Dylan, Jordan; and three greatgrandchildren, Ryder, Jaxton and Keanna. He is also survived by his sister, Sharon (Bill) Mueller and brother, Pobe (Barb) Behnke. He is further survived by six sister-in-laws, Dorie (Don) Gourlie, Joan (Dennis) Hodgson, Elaine Schabel, Mary (Bob) Bonack and Peggy Streit; one brother-in-law, Aurthur (Jean) Plansky; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; and in-laws, Art Plansky and Jeanette (Leander) Jurgensmier.
Visitation will take place on Monday, July 8, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at 12 p.m. at Koepsell Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam.
A celebration of life for Don will take place on Monday, July 8, at 12 p.m. at the Koepsell Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam with the Rev. Fr. Tom Biersack presiding.
Memorials may be directed to St. Agnes Hospice Home of Hope.
Koepsell Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam is serving the family. For online condolences and other information please visit www.KoepsellFH.com
