Donald R. Sarenpa

October 18, 1952 — April 12, 2024

Schofield

Coffee black, cigarettes, start this day like all the rest.

That was Donny (71) of Schofield, WI. Don passed away on Friday, April 12, 2024, from his battle with cancer. Don was born 10/18/1952, in Minneapolis, MN, to his late parents, Rudolph & Irene (Koskela) Sarenpa.

He married Barbara "Barb" Swedowski on September 17, 1976, in Wausau, WI.

Don was first a machinist, then got a job with Drake Plastering. He inherited the plastering business from Frank Drake. Don was a plaster mane for 40+ years. All 4 sons worked in the family business at some point.

Don was a fan of 50's, 60's, 70's cars: especially Mercury's, Ford's, & Chevy's. His love of cars was passed onto his sons. Hundreds of model cars were built at the kitchen table. He was a Packer fan except when they played the Vikings, then he was a Vikings fan. He was also a Badger football fan.

One of Don's proudest moments was delivering his son Jamie in the car by the Rothschild Pavilion.

Donny loved having Blatz beer with "Ma" or "Honey" (Barb's pet names) while listening to classic country music. Their song is "She and I". His favorites were Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline & George Jones.

Don's Bar was his sanctuary in the basement. Lots of good times were had with family & friends, drinking beer, shooting pool, playing foo, and talking B.S.

As a dog lover, Don had many dogs. Smokie was his last and passed away 2023.

Donny is survived by his wife, Barb of 47 years. Four sons: Brian, Jamie, Shawn (Angela), and Michael. Five grandchildren: Brianna, Wyatt, Caden, Elyse, and Olivia. Father-in-law: Raymond Swedowski. Donny is survived by many relatives and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents: Rudolph and Irene; brother: Randy; mother-in-law: Dolores Swedowski. Also preceded by many relatives and friends.

Celebrate Donny's life with a Blatz and LET'S GET PLASTERED!

A private family service is being held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Don's family wants to thank the Aspirus staff at the hospital, cancer center, and hospice care for the excellent care. Also, thank you Brainard Funeral Home.

A special thanks goes to Ellie, Janice, Rob, & Tricia for helping during the family's time of need.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Donald R. Sarenpa, please visit our flower store.

Send a Card

Donald R. Sarenpa

October 18, 1952 — April 12, 2024

Schofield

Guestbook