Donald L. 'Spike' Meyer

MINERAL POINT-Donald L. “Spike” Meyer, age 73, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012, surrounded by his loved ones at St. Mary’s Hospital. He was born on Jan. 1, 1939, in Madison, the son of Herbert and Helen Meyer. He was a longtime resident of the Oregon/Brooklyn area, and most recently Hollandale. After attending Oregon Schools he went on to serve for the U.S. Air Force. In 1963, Don met and married his lifelong companion and love, Rita Ruud, and the two welcomed their only daughter shortly after. Before eventually returning to his home state of Wisconsin to work construction, Don was employed as an air traffic controller in the Chicago area. He then fulfilled his lifelong passion and enjoyed working long days as a farmer up until his retirement and beyond. Come Sunday you could usually find “Spike” watching the NASCAR race or out on his Harley wherever the open road led him. Come spring and warm weather, Don and Rita enjoyed spending their day’s garage sale hopping, looking for the biggest deals they could find. Don is survived by his daughter, Keri Palmer; two grandchildren, Preston Palmer and Kera (Brock) Margelofsky; and great-granddaughter, Ciara Jane. He was also anxiously awaiting the August arrival of his second great-grandchild. He is further survived by his sister, Caroline Smith; brother, Tom (Sharon) Meyer; godson and nephew, Brian (Tracy) Meyer. He is also survived by nephews, Tim Fernan, Dan Fernan, Matt (Tracey) Meyer, Scott Meyer, and Andy (Tara) Meyer; nieces, Cheryl (Mike) Sullivan, Julie Kohn, and Brenda DiMaggio; many great-nieces and great-nephews; and as well as many dear, lifelong friends. Don was preceded in death by his wife, Rita; parents, Herbert and Helen; a brother, James; son-in-law, Ronald; and brother-in-law, Tom Smith. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL HOME, 1150 Park Street, Oregon, from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012. Military honors will be conducted at 5 p.m. at the funeral home. “Though the blazing blue eyes of wisdom are now closed, we will always hold our memories, love, and laughter true in our hearts.” Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL HOME, 1150 Park Street, Oregon, from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012. Military honors will be conducted at 5 p.m. at the funeral home.