Donald "Don" Mickelson

Donald "Don" Mickelson

May 31, 1929 - October 25, 2025

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Obituary

MADISON - Donald Keith Mickelson, age 96, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, October 25, 2025. He was born on May 31,1929, in Madison.


After graduating from Sun Prairie High School, Don joined the U.S. Marine Corps and proudly served his country for four years. He then married Shirley Halvorson and they shared 75 wonderful years together.


Don retired as a Captain from the Madison Police Department. Following his retirement, he continued to work as a truck driver and was a proud member of the Teamsters Union for more than 50 years.


A passionate farmer, Don enjoyed growing sweet corn and peas on his farm in East Bristol for the local canning factory. He was a 50-year member of the Shriners, a life member of the VFW, and a charter member of Lake Edge Lutheran Church. Don also loved volunteering for St. Vincent de Paul, where he was honored as an Outstanding Volunteer of the Year.


Don is survived by his loving wife, Shirley; two daughters, Karen Blodgett and Kathy (Michael) McGlauflin; three grandchildren, Samantha (Chris Serino) Hawa, Haley (Sam Records) McGlauflin, and Elinor McGlauflin; and great-grandson, Jake Hawa.


The family deeply appreciates the excellent care provided by Common Heart and Visiting Angels. Memorials may be made to Lake Edge Lutheran Church or to Shriners Hospitals for Children (or Zor Shriners, Madison, if you wish to specify the local chapter).


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


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

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AM
A Memorial Tree was planted for Donald Keith Mickelson
Other •
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Madison
PA
Phi Anderson
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He was the real deal during the Riots! Retired Madison Police Officer Phil Anderson when Don was a Captain with the Madison Police department!
MH
Mel Hoger
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I enjoyed working for many years at the cop shop with Don--he was a great guy!!
SK
Sue Krause
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I enjoyed many conversations with the Captain about his service at MPD. His leadership was legendary.
GC
George Croal
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Back in the late 60s early 70s Don was patrol captain. Rob Lombardo and I wanted to walk State st 7pm to 3am. Don said we were to small and not tough enough. But being a very fair boss he said. Let’s go into the gym. If u two can put me down I will assign u to walk State st. Well that was not a very likely outcome. Don was sturdy as a bull. However we pulled it off. I went low and rob went high and we floored the bull. True to his word we walked state st. Every officer respected and appreciated captain Don He ledevery charge. Say hi to saint Peter for all of us Captain
RD
Richard J Daley
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Captain Don Mickelson was an extraordinary leader in the Madison Police Department in pivitol times when his steady and trusted leadership was appreciated. It was my great honor to work under his leadership and to know him as a good man well met by all who knew him. Rest in Peace!

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