Donald “Don” D. Kempf

Donald “Don” D. Kempf, 88, passed peacefully in his sleep at home on August 6, 2025.

He was born in Wausau on August 30, 1936, to the late Walter and Clara (Wadzinski) Kempf. On October 10, 1958, he married Joan M. Schopper; she preceded him in death on April 26, 2022.

Don was a determined, quick-witted, self-made man who throughout his life, rose to meet challenges. As the fourth in a family of 10 children, Don learned early to be resourceful, disciplined, and self-reliant. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and worked as a Western Union telegram delivery boy. In 1957, he became a pressman with American Can printing company where he stayed through various corporate changes until he retired in 1993.

Industrious and intelligent, Don built his family’s home next door to his only brother, Marvin. He possessed a keen eye for detail and was competent in constructing, repairing, and maintaining items, so the family’s property was kept in order, up to date, and in top form.

Don was drawn to the out-of-doors. He enjoyed boating and was an accomplished water skier who taught all his children to ski at a young age. He bought his first snowmobile in 1965, and he and Joan continued that winter recreation for 40 years. Don hunted, fished, and drew great pleasure from the water, woods, and wildlife.

Their affection for northern Wisconsin led Don and Joan to acquire land “up north.” Inspired by their love of the place and with vision and unwavering resolve, they built their dream home on Tomahawk Lake, where they spent much of their retired life. Don and Joan traveled the U.S. and Canada but cherished their time up north.

Don and Joan were devout Catholics who belonged to Holy Family Church in Woodruff and Wausau’s East Side Parishes. Don was active both in northern and central Wisconsin until his debilitating stroke in 2015. His resilience, fighting spirit, and faith enabled him to return to the comfort of home in Wausau, where he and Joan remained with care.

He is survived by his children, Thomas (Mary), Donna, Robert (Brenda), and Daniel (Sarah), as well as seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Gratitude is due to Don’s caregivers, who for over a decade met his daily needs, supported his health, and allowed him to sustain his dignity. Also, thanks are due to Wausau’s East Side Parish volunteers who visited him and brought him Holy Communion.

His funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 20, at St. Michael Catholic Church, Wausau, preceded by visitation from 10 a.m. until the Mass. He will be laid to rest with Joan at Restlawn Memorial Park.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.