Don L. Herlitz Jr.
November 03, 1959 - February 19, 2016
Obituary
MADISON- Don Herlitz Jr., age 56, passed away on Friday, Feb. 19, 2016, at his home in Madison. He was born on Nov. 3, 1959, in Madison, the son of Don Herlitz Sr. and Dorothy (Peterson) Herlitz. Don Jr. idolized his dad, a longtime Madison bartender, for the short 10 years he was in his life before Don Sr. passed away. He loved playing hockey at Tenney Park, and as he grew into adulthood, he became known for his easy ability to make friends and knowing how to have a good time. At the age of 18, Don married Dina Schumacher, and inherited an infant son, Ryan, whom he raised as his own. Not long afterward, he joined the U.S. Army, and the young family made stops in Colorado, West Germany, where their first daughter, Lisa, was born, and finally, Kansas. The years in Kansas saw the birth of another daughter, Mary, and a new career for Don. He became a car salesman, a profession at which he excelled. After he and Dina divorced in the mid‐1990s, he moved back to his beloved east side of Madison, where he remained until he passed away. Don helped Ryan find his way to college, and after Lisa had children of her own, daughters, Reese (PiePie) and Ella Rue, he became a doting grandfather who often took the girls to the Madison Children's Museum, Vilas Zoo, and on bus rides around the city. He became a grandfather again when his youngest daughter, Mary, had a daughter, Violet, and son, Avi. Don was so incredibly proud of all of his children and grandchildren. He'd tell anyone who'd listen all about them. Don was also an avid bicyclist and a fervent supporter of the local music scene. He made many friends among fellow fans and Madison musicians. His big personality and ability to make anyone laugh will not soon be forgotten by the many who knew and loved him. Don didn't want a funeral, but rather a big party for all of his friends and family to have fun at, so that's what we'll be doing. Party details to follow. Don is survived by his son, Ryan (Tina Cabrera) Schumacher of Austin, Texas; daughters, Lisa (Lee) Bender of Sun Prairie and Mary (Aron) Lundberg of Manhattan, KS; grandchildren, Reese, Ella, Violet, and Avi; siblings, Barbara Clayton, Tom (Judy) Clayton, Debbie (Melvin) Clayton, and Mary (Larry) Rismeyer; nieces, Laura, Christine, Serene, Renee, and Shelley; and nephews, David and Tom Jr. He was preceded in death by his parents; and half‐brother Charles. Donations for cremation and party expenses can be made to the Don Herlitz Memorial Fund at: gofund.me/9aq93rng. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420
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Memories
RM
Ruth Mckibben
Other •
We are sorry for your loss.
We will miss him,Robert Lee and Ruth..
R
Renee
Other •
uncle Don, I remember you took us swimming, to see the fireworks, and long wonderful road trips in some pretty awesome cars. You were a good cook to. I remember we always ate good when you were home. You taught me how to make an omlette that I still make, and roasted potatoes, and grilled cheese! you always loved your kids so much! and you could put a smile on anyone's face! you lived a great life! rest in peace in heaven uncle don!!!!!!!!
EK
Ed. Koziel
Other •
I first met Don Belushi working at Schoepp Motors. You were a awsome salesperson but even a better cook some of the soup you made we're out of this world. Working in the car business you put in a lot of hours and your co-workers quickly become second family. One Saturday after work we all decided to go to the Silver Eagle on Monona Drive for karaoke. The next thing I know Don grabs the microphone and start singing a song about lesbians. My mouth hit the floor and then all the sudden the entire bar started laughing. I wish I remember those lyrics but anyone that was there that day will never forget it. The last thing you said to me was the viqueens played a good game. He knew I was a huge Viking fan and always had to get at me. Rest in peace.
DH
David Hecht
Other •
RIP Don... Such a great guy, with a big heart and a big appetite for life. A true music aficionado as well. I will always remember him as one of the most enthusiastic audience members ever... Dancing, yelling, carrying on with unbridled joy. He was one of the first friends I made at Madison East High School when our family moved to Madison so many years ago. Don, you will be missed but your memory will be a blessing.
JB
Joe Brown
Other •
Frisbee, music, hockey, having fun. Pretty much explains growing up with Don. A true and proud east sider. He is going to be missed. Don, I will see you again, RIP.
My deepest sympathies to Don's family.
Joe Brown
JH
Jim Hovde
Other •
Don. You and I were joined at the hip at good old East High our Freshman and Sophomore year. Man did we have fun. Was such an exciting time in our lives. Remember that time my Dad had to go to New Orleans on business and he took us along.?? We chased that purse snatcher that stole that woman's handbag.?? Anyway. 56 is way to young but you packed alot into that 56 years. You left an adorable family. See you in about 20 or 25. Your good buddy. Jim Hovde