WINONA, Minn. - Donald “Don” John Braatz of Winona, Minn., passed away on March 3, 2024, at BeeHive Homes of Oregon, Wis., at the age of 81.

Don was born on March 22, 1942; he was raised by parents Charles and Virginia (Woodward) Braatz along with his three siblings, Ken, Suzanne, and Bill. Don graduated from Winona Senior High School and attended Winona State University for two years before being drafted for the Vietnam War. Upon returning, Don worked a few different jobs before being hired at Fiberite engineering where he worked for 40 years.

In 1978, Don met Paula Kolter in Winona and they married on June 11, 1983. Don and Paula welcomed their son, Joe, into their lives in 1990.

Don enjoyed many sports throughout his life. In high school he earned all-conference honors in track and field along with participating in wrestling, football, and basketball. He then went on to run track at Winona State before being drafted for Vietnam. Don was also a passionate member of the bowling community and was elected to the Winona Bowling Hall of Fame in 2015. Later in life, after retiring, Don picked up golf as a hobby and it became an absolute love of his. He could be found walking 18 holes a day all summer long at Westfield Golf Course. Don also enjoyed playing cards, watching Nascar, and cracking jokes. His sense of humor will stick with those who knew and loved him.

Don is survived by his wife, Paula Braatz; son, Joe (Kelly) Braatz; grandchildren, Conor and Jackson Braatz; brother, Ken Braatz; and nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Virginia; brother, Bill; and sister, Suzanne.

An open house celebration of life will be held for him at the AMERICAN LEGION, 302 E. Sarnia St., Winona, MN 55987, from 12 noon until 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 5, 2024.

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

Gunderson Oregon

Funeral & Cremation Care

1150 Park St.

(608) 835-3515

Donald J. Braatz

March 22, 1942 - March 03, 2024

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