Donalyn "Don" Ray Unke

I still remember when we were going to Key West a few years ago when we saw Don & Joyce at the Milwaukee airport. They were also going to Key West - on the same flights! We had arrived to the airport very early and had a ton of time to kill before the first flight left. Joyce was pleased to have Mike chat with Don the whole time before the flight, because Don hated flying. Don, you will be greatly missed! We we do what we can here on earth to take care of Joyce until it's her time to join you in heaven. Roxy

Our family would like to thank the Lodi EMS for their very special care of dad over the past 4-5 years. Dad has had several falls & the EMS staff always took such great care of him! Mom talks about you all often! And to the Med Flight staff that cared for him this past Monday (his 83rd Birthday) as they flew him from Lodi to the UW hospital. We know a helicopter ride was not what you wanted for your birthday dad, but at least you had a great view of the corn fields on your way! hugs - k

My family has know the Unke's since moving to Lodi in the early '60s!! Best memory of Don that I have would encompass all the time our softball team was sponsored by his Hardware Hank store!! Wish I still had that shirt... Thanks 'Hank', for the great example of how to live life to the fullest, laughing often and loving deeply. You will truly be missed down here. God Speed

My family got to know Don and Joyce better while we lived near them on the little alley. I remember Don working tirelessly in that huge garden. Always a smile and kind word for the kids. Our thoughts go out to the family.

Our family would like to let everyone know how things happened this past Monday. Dad fell at home & the severe head trauma caused the EMT crew to have him Med Flighted from the Middle school parking lot across the street from their condo. This ironically was also dad's 83rd birthday. We agreed to let nature takes its course, We surrounded his bed & sang happy birthday to him. We are also blessed that my step daughter Jennifer was working the Trauma floor & helped our family get through the evening. We removed his breathing tube Tuesday afternoon after Brett's arrival from Key West. We prayed around his bed, told stories, said our goodbyes. Approx. 7:45 pm with Brett by his side he peacefully took his last breath. Although we are incredibly saddened by his passing, we are also feeling blessed that he is finally at peace.