Donald Kohlman

Donald Kenneth Kohlman, 76, of Fond du Lac, passed away Friday, May 24, 2024 at St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac.

Donald was born March 26, 1948 in Beaver Dam, the son of Kenneth and Mildred Holloway Kohlman. Don attended Waupun Public Schools, graduating from Waupun High School in 1966. During the summer months Don worked at Waupun Bottling Works for three summers. In July of 1967, at the age of 19, Don enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving for four years. During this time he spent 19 months in Vietnam and kept in contact with some of his buddies. Following his service he went to UW-Oshkosh where he earned his masters degree plus 30 more credits. Don was employed with the Fond du Lac School District where he taught special education students for 28 years and later went on to supervise special education teachers for 7 years at UW-Oshkosh. Don really enjoyed the education field and made many friends. This was a special time in his life. The best part of Don’s life came when he married Mary Vander Zanden from DePere. He met Mary on a “blind date” during the time he was attending UW-Oshkosh. Don and Mary have one son, Todd who now lives in Vermont and works for Burton Snowboards. Todd is working his “dream job”. In Don’s words, “I was very lucky! Todd, Mary and I really had a very special relationship. We went on many trips together, even to Japan when Todd was teaching the English language.” Don has enjoyed his relationships with his sister, Judy Luedtke who resides in Minocqua. Over the years he enjoyed motorcycling, Green Bay Packers, hunting, fishing with his dad, basketball, and golfing with friends.

Don is survived by his wife, Mary; son, Todd; and sister, Judy.

Don was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Dave Luedtke.

Don realized “you are dancing on this earth a short time” so he enjoyed every moment! He was very thankful and blessed by all his friends. Love you all!!

A Memorial Service and Celebration of Don’s Life will be held Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 12 noon Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home in Waupun. Burial of cremains will take place following the service at Forest Mound Cemetery in Waupun with military honors provided by American Legion Post 210 of Waupun. Friends and relatives will call on the family on Saturday at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of service.