Donald Gaines

MADISON / BLUE MOUNDS - Donald F. Gaines, age 89, Professor Emeritus at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026. Born and raised in Caldwell, Idaho, Don was the son of Ella and John Gaines.

Don received his B.S. degree in Chemistry from the The College of Idaho in 1958, his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from Indiana University, and completed postdoctoral studies in Manchester, England, before joining the Department of Chemistry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Throughout his distinguished career, Don embraced many roles: researcher, administrator, mentor and teacher. Much of his research focused on boron hydrides, a class of molecules distinguished by their unique structures and often described as “highly energetic.” As Don liked to note, these investigations “were occasionally accompanied by fires and explosions, but never by serious accident.” In 1990, the international reputation established through his work was recognized with the Boron USA Award for Distinguished Achievement in Boron Science.

The Department of Chemistry benefited greatly from Don’s many contributions. He chaired the Inorganic Chemistry Division, supervised the glass shop, advised countless students, and provided guidance for building renovations and construction projects. He also served as a consultant to the University Safety Department for 30 years.

Don met the love of his life, Nancy, while they were both graduate students at Indiana University. Together they shared 66 wonderful years of marriage and raised two daughters, Elizabeth and Mary. Later, when grandchildren Alexander and Julia were born, Don delighted in teaching them new things, sharing his love of birdwatching, and attending their many activities.

Nature was Don’s lifelong passion. He began every morning watching birds through binoculars from his sunroom. He loved “taking expeditions“ hiking, backpacking, camping, and canoeing - first in the mountains of Idaho and later throughout Wisconsin. He made yearly canoe trips and in later years, he spent several summers sailing and exploring the islands of Scotland.

Photography was another hobby that drew him outdoors to capture the beauty he observed around him. He developed photographs in his darkrooms and shared these activities with his daughters during their childhood. In later years, he immersed himself even more deeply in photography, incorporating modern technology to experiment creatively with images.

Don also took pleasure in all varieties of music. He played the bass fiddle throughout his life, including with the University Symphony, and also performed on the baritone horn in several groups.

Don is survived by his loving family, as well as many colleagues and good friends.

As Don was a devoted lover of cats and dogs, his family would appreciate memorial donations to the Iowa County Humane Society or Blue Mound State Park.

A memorial service will be held at BARNEVELD LUTHERAN CHURCH, 505 Swiss Lane, Barneveld, at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. Visitation will be held at the church from 2 p.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday.

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

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