MIDDLETON / BELLEVILLE - Donald Gene Marty, age 85, of Middleton, passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2026, on the same land he was born on, surrounded by loving family. He entered the world in Belleville on August 1, 1940, the son of Walter and Barbara (Klassy) Marty.

Donald graduated from Belleville High School prior to spending four years in the United States Navy. This experience was foundational for him, and he spent his life deeply proud of serving his country. He married the love of his life, Delores Christine “Lory” Meinholz, on April 18, 1963, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Ashton. Don and Lory met at a dance hall in Waunakee, and they danced together for 53 years while raising nine children. Don was a baker and worked at Clasen Bakery in Middleton for 25 years prior to his retirement.

Beyond his devotion to Lory and their family, Don found joy in caring for his land, beautiful flowers and vegetable garden, tending to his orchard and vineyard and making wine. He also loved to socialize. He and Lory spent almost every weekend dancing at the New Glarus Hotel, listening to live music or cruising in their Mustang Convertible. Don was also a member of Madison Convertible Club and the Prairie Home Vintners wine club.

Donald is survived by his children, Tammy (Brian Cate) Carlson, Peter (Ellen) Marty, Duane Marty, Aaron Marty, Lucas (Kelly) Marty, Naomi (Joel) Olayo and Sarah Marty; as well as his son-in-law, Lou Mahoney; daughter-in-law, Kaye Marty; 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Don is further survived by his sister-in-law, Beverly (Ervin) Breunig; and dear family friends, Duane and Eileen Bell, Joe and Diane Buol and Earl and Mary Meinholz. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lory; son, Donnie Marty; daughter, Michele Mahoney; parents, Walter and Barbara Marty; brothers, Delmar Marty, Leon Marty and Earl Marty; and nephew, Lee Breunig.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. PETER’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 7121 County Highway K, Ashton, at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. A graveside service will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026, and also at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Tuesday.

The family wishes to thank the Agrace HospiceCare team, especially Lexee, Megan and Jessica for their compassionate care.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West
Funeral & Cremation Care
7435 University Ave.
(608) 831-6761

Donald G. Marty

August 01, 1940 - March 15, 2026

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