Donald J. Stadler

COTTAGE GROVE-Donald John Stadler Sr., age 85, of Cottage Grove, passed away peacefullyon Saturday, June 4, 2011. He was born on May 16, 1926, in Milwaukee , the son of Lucas and Catherine Ruby (McClellan) Stadler. He married the love of his life, Lucille (Sue) Eckert, of Fish Creek, on Jan. 29, 1949, in Milwaukee. Don joined the Marine Corps at age 17 and proudly served in the Pacific in World War II. He was in the battles of Okinawa and Peleliu. He attended St. Mary's college in California and Northwestern University in Illinois, and was a member of the collegiate football teams. He and Sue enjoyed living in California for four years in the early 1950's. During his career Don worked in finance and as an auditor for the A & P Food stores. He and Sue, his wife of 62 years, loved taking road trips around the United States, visiting every state except Delaware, Alaska and Hawaii. He enjoyed reading innumerable mystery novels, biking at dawn, and watching and reading about sports of all kinds. Don is the beloved husband of Sue; dear father of Caryn (Allen) Schmidt of Cottage Grove, Donald Jr. (Kathy) Stadler of Neosho, and Christine Stadler (John Niffenegger) of West Allis; grandfather of seven, Shannon, DeAnn, Steven (Kate), Branden, Peter, Katrina, Nathan; great-grandfather of six, Ryan, Kristen, Kyle, Cameron, Kallie, Sophia; great-great-grandfather, of Aiden. Also survived by other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a great-grandchild, Deaven. Don will be remembered for his independent spirit, wit, and his love for his family. A memorial celebration of his life will be held at BRYN MAWR PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 229 N. Main St, Cottage Grove , at 12 noon, on Saturday, June 18, 2011, with the Rev. Craig Howard presiding. Visitation will be held at the church from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. A luncheon will follow. Special thanks go to the care givers at St. Mary\'s Cardiac Unit, HospiceCare Inc. of Fitchburg, and the Angelus Assisted Living Center in Cottage Grove. Visitation: Visitation will be held at the church from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. Service: A memorial celebration of his life will be held at BRYN MAWR PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 229 N. Main St, Cottage Grove , at 12 noon, on Saturday, June 18, 2011, with the Rev. Craig Howard presiding.