Donald Solheim

Solheim, Donald SanfordMADISON - Donald Solheim, age 86, died Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010, at UW Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Solheim was born March 10, 1923, in Arlington, the son of Sanford and Mamie (Janisch) Solheim. Don served in the Army Air Corp from June 1941 to January 1946 in India. Don married Dorothy Rouse on June 1, 1946. He graduated from Madison Business College and worked for Del Monte Corporation in Mendota, Ill. In 1957, he was offered a position with the Wausau Insurance Company. He moved with his family to Madison and worked as an insurance sales representative until his retirement in 1985. Don loved living in Madison and contributed to the community in many ways. He served in many roles, church council and treasury, at Monona Lutheran Church. As a member of Bethel Lutheran Church, his recent church home, Don was active in men's fellowship, couples club, men's book club, congregational life committee and the Victory Choir. After retirement, Don helped found Bethesda Thrift Store and served as co-manager for 18 years. With his wife, he delivered Meals on Wheels for 10 years. He was a member of the Sertoma Club for many years. Don was devoted to his family and treasured his grandchildren. His family is proud of him, admired his strong mind and courage, and will miss him very much. Don is survived by Dorothy, his wife of 63 years, his children, grandchildren, and a brother. His children and their families include, Tom and Sandy Solheim, Karla, Michael and David; Jerrianne and William Bland, Lars and Katie;Karen Solheim; and Christine and Errol Hartman. His brother, Keith and his wife, Margaret live in Florida. He is survived by his sisters-in-law, Norene Solheim, Gerry Rouse, and Laurel Rouse; nieces, nephews and many friends. Don was preceded in death by his parents;and his brothers, Kenneth and David. Visitation will be held at BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 312 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, from 10 a.m. until 11:45 a.m., followed by a memorial service at noon, with the Rev. Curtis Everson presiding. A private family burial will be on Friday, Jan. 15, 2010. Memorials may be made to Bethel Lutheran Church Media Ministry. The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff on B6/6 at UW Hospital and to the staff at Capital Lakes Health Care Center for their wonderful care. Memorials: Memorials may be made to Bethel Lutheran Church Media Ministry. Cemetery: A private family burial will be on Friday, Jan. 15, 2010. Visitation: Visitation will be held at BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 312 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, from 10 a.m. until 11:45 a.m., followed by a memorial service at noon, with the Rev. Curtis Everson presiding. Service: Visitation will be held at BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 312 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, from 10 a.m. until 11:45 a.m., followed by a memorial service at noon, with the Rev. Curtis Everson presiding.