Donald R. Gernetzke

Donald R. Gernetzke of the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King, formerly of Milwaukee, age 92, passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026. He was born in Columbus, Wisconsin on January 17, 1933 to the late Leonard and Leta (Klug) Gernetzke and grew up on the family farm in Lowell, Wisconsin. Don graduated from Juneau High School class of 1950. He served in the United States Air Force and was a proud veteran and a member of the American Legion. He was united in marriage with Shirley in 1959. He worked many years as a bus driver for the Milwaukee County Transit System and for Johnson School Bus Service in Menomonee Falls. 
Don is survived by his sons Kenneth (Linda) Larson and Phil Gernetzke, his long-time companion and friend, Audrey Webb, his grandchildren Sharon Grazier, Deanna Hawlish, Marnie Wilson and Cari Larson, and his great-grandchildren, Abby, Alli, Jimmy, Colin, Jonah and Joseph. He will be fondly missed by many other relatives and friends. Don was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Shirley, and his ten siblings, Verna Hutto, Irma Buss, Ray Gernetzke, Harold Gernetzke, Edward Gernetzke, Hazel Kelnhofer, Lila Dombrowski, Marion LaRocco, Robert Gernetzke and Gladys Gernetzke. 

Don enjoyed retired years living in Eagle River, Wisconsin and tending to the yard, fishing and boating. He loved polkas, working on cars, gardening and taking car trips. Don enjoyed listening to the Brewers games all season and was a Packer fan. He loved visits from his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and his many relatives, especially during his recent years at the Wisconsin Veterans Home. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 
A memorial service will be held and is pending.

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