Donald L. Grinde

MADISON-Donald L. Grinde, age 83, of Madison, passed away on Tuesday, March 12, 2019, at St. Mary’s Hospital, surrounded by his family. He was born April 7, 1935, in Madison, the son of Eugene and Josephine (Anderson) Grinde. After graduating high school, Don attended Luther College in Iowa. He married Jan Lueck in 1958 in DeForest and together they celebrated 59 years. Don worked as an analyst for American Family Insurance for 33 years before retiring in 1999. Don will be remembered most for the love he had for his family. He treasured the time they spent together at the family tree farm, camping, and canoeing. He loved being outside and was well known for saying, “the trees don’t ring”. Don cherished time tending to the wood stove, loving the warmth. In all his years deer hunting, he was famous for never actually shooting anything, preferring to watch the squirrels and other wildlife. Don participated in many scout outings, enjoying things with his sons he was never able to do in his own childhood. He had a very curious nature and was always interested in many different aspects of history and mysteries. Don was a proficient conversationalist and thoroughly enjoyed talking to people over a good meal and a game of cards. His good company will be deeply missed. Don is survived by his son, Jeffrey (Amy) Grinde; grandchildren, Jeffrey Jr., Alyssa Grinde, Greg Desjarlais and Sara (Eric) Krumenauer, and Carolina, Emilio and Pamela Cumbajin; great-grandchildren, McKenna Hundt and Ryan Beck; daughter-in-law, Maria Lara; brothers, George (Julie) Grinde, and Kenneth (Wava) Grinde; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jan Grinde; his parents; sons, Donald Jr. (June 15, 1960- April 12, 1961) and Mark Grinde; brothers, Richard Grinde, and Marvin Grinde. A Celebration of Don’s Life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 1:30 pm on Sunday, March 17, 2019. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 12 Noon until the time of the service on Sunday. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive 608-221-5420