MIDDLETON - Dean D. “Don” Denson, age 92, of Middleton, passed away on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the VA HospiceCare in Madison, Wis. Don was born on September 14, 1933, in Madison, the son of Benjamin and Margaretha (Grace) Denson. He graduated from Middleton High School in 1951, where he met the love of his life, Carolyn (Forsmo) Denson. They married on November 22, 1952.

A lifelong resident of Middleton, Don excelled in sports throughout his high school years, especially baseball. He was drafted by the Brooklyn Dodgers as a shortstop, but before he could pursue that dream, he was drafted to serve in the Korean War. While stationed in Germany, he was a pole lineman, and he played semi-pro baseball for the U.S. Army.

Don was known for his strong work ethic and rarely sat still for long. He spent his entire career in the Redi-Mix industry, beginning with Raemisch Redi-Mix, Lycon, and finally Wingra. His grandchildren were his pride and joy. He loved cheering on his children and grandchildren at their sporting events and was a devoted fan of the Badgers and Packers.

Don is survived by his four children, Donald (Ben) (Margaret) Denson of San Marcos, Texas, Ron (Lynn) Denson of Middleton, Dena (Ray) Harter of Cross Plains and Kirk (Rená) Denson of Middleton. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Hayden (Kendal) Denson, Haley Denson, Hanna Denson, Kelsey (Graham) Nugent and Aaron (Brittany) Harter; and his great-grandchildren, Noah, Luca and Tessa Harter and Davis Denson. He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Carolyn of 72 years; his sister, Shirley (Denson) Olson; brother-in-law, Steven Olson; and an infant sister.

A memorial service will be held at ST. LUKE'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 7337 Hubbard Ave., Middleton, at 11 a.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026. A private burial service will be held at St. Luke’s Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the VA and dad's devoted caregivers-Cindy, his Senior Helper for many years, and Mike, his live-in caregiver for the past year and a half, for their exceptional care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Luke's Lutheran Church or a charitable organization of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

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

Don Denson

September 14, 1933 - January 31, 2026

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