MADISON - Donald E. Tjugum, age 96, of Madison, peacefully departed on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, in the arms of his loving wife of 74 years. He entered this world on Sept. 12, 1927, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, the son of Ever and Hazel (Thompson) Tjugum and later the stepson of Walter Fischer.

Donald graduated from East High School in 1945. He was part of the East High School football team where he was a half back, linebacker and helped the East High team win the Big 8 Championship in 1944. In addition to football, Don participated in Acapella Choir.

While in high school, Don was introduced to a young freshman named, Buelah "Penny" Brickson. They dated throughout high school until he entered the U.S. Army after graduation. He was trained to be a surgical medical technician at Letterman General Hospital in California. After training was complete, he was sent to serve in Japan. Don was honorably discharged with a rank of Warrant Officer in 1947, just in time to attend Penny’s graduation. They resumed dating when he returned.

Don and Penny wrote letters to each other every day that he was in the service. Penny waited for his return and on June 25, 1949, they were married at Trinity Lutheran Church in Madison.

Donald was employed at several automotive businesses in Madison. In 1970, he and Penny purchased Thomas C. Olson Company, an automotive parts store. His three sons joined him in the business and when Don and Penny retired, they turned the business over to them. Don’s daughter decided to pursue a career in Nursing.

Don served as the Madison Automotive Jobbers Association president, was a life member of the Madison Elk’s Club Lodge No. 410 and a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge No. 356. He was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church where he was active in senior adult ministry.

Don and Penny enjoyed camping. They also had the opportunity to travel to many beautiful countries. In 1974 they bought a small cottage in northern Wisconsin. Here they and their family enjoyed snowmobiling, hiking, cross country skiing, boating and fishing.

Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife, Penny who remained by his side until the end. Don is survived by his four children, Thomas (Kathryn) Tjugum, James (Kimberly) Tjugum, Gerald (Rebekah) Tjugum and Diane (Charles) Meyer; eight grandchildren, Michelle (Matthew), Teri (Travis), Ryan (Jenny), Shelby (Anthony), Michael, Christina (Matthew) Jenna (Bryan) and Kaitlin (Ryan); great-grandchildren, Sydney, Keeton, Cody, Reece, Talan, Jacob (Abby), Lexie, Emily, Jasmine, Samantha, Malachi, Penelope and the newest addition, Noa. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather; and sister, Connie Williams.

A funeral service will be held at MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5202 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 26, 2024. A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, and also at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday.

Memorials may be gifted in Don’s name to Messiah Lutheran Church, Heartland Hospice or Mayo Clinic Cancer Research.

Our sincerest thank you to the staff at Heartland Hospice and St. Mary’s Hospital 8SW for their wonderful care and compassion. Also, to Dr. Al Musa of Dean Clinic and Dr. Kwon’s team at Mayo Clinic for their constant care.

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

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Donald Ever Tjugum

September 12, 1927 - February 18, 2024

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