Donald Earl Tichenor Sr.

Donald E. Tichenor Sr., age 87, of Green Valley, AZ, formerly of Madison, WI, passed away on January 10, 2017, at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born on May 27, 1929 in Prairie du Chien, WI the son of Austin and Marie (Valley) Tichenor. Don was united in marriage to Mary Jean Geisler on June 20, 1953 and enjoyed over fifty-five years of marriage. Together, they owned and operated Geisler's Blue Heaven Restaurant, Bar & Supper Club in Prairie du Chien for over forty years. He was a gracious host and bartender to their customers and friends. During this time, he was actively involved in the Wisconsin Restaurant Association, Wisconsin Tavern League and the Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce. Don was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Council and a lifelong member of the American Legion, last being a member of Post 66 in Green Valley, AZ.

Don was a U.S. Air Force veteran, serving from May 1, 1948 to April 30, 1954, as a proud member of the 18th Fighter Wing, serving in the Philippines. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his service years, he was given the nickname "Duke" and it stayed with him throughout his life.

Don enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, sipping on a beer and playing cards. He was the master of "Cribbage" and enjoyed teaching the game to both family and friends. During his later years, he became known as "Big D" and everyone that met him affectionately called him by this nickname. He looked forward to his weekly trips to the casino, trips to the American Legion for the weekly drawings and karaoke - even though he didn't sing and would jokingly say that others shouldn't sing either.

"Big D" was preceded in death by his wife on October 2, 2008, his parents and siblings: Austin "Bud" Tichenor, Doris Jean Tichenor, Richard Tichenor and Kenneth Tichenor.

Donald will be greatly missed by his family, including his daughter, Debera Tichenor (Johnnie Powell) of Green Valley AZ; son, Donald E. Tichenor Jr. of Stoughton, WI; granddaughter, Jesha Tichenor of Madison, WI; brothers, Darwin Tichenor of Madison, WI; James (Teresa) Tichenor of Kirksville, MO; sister in-law, Jeri (Jack) Kluesner of Prairie du Chien, Phyllis (Kenneth) Tichenor of Prairie du Chien, WI; brother in-law, Larry (Diane) Geisler of Monona, IA and special niece, Michelle (Larry) Mara of Sun Prairie, WI, several other nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

The family would like to thank Soulistic Hospice Services and their great staff, Valerie, Evelyn, and Monica, and our special caregiver, Maria Virgin, who was like one of our family. Thank you to all of our friends, near and far, for your support and prayers, especially Lynn and Mike Nowakowski, for helping throughout our time of need.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a Celebration of Life service will be held in Prairie du Chien this summer for family and friends.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Neptune Society, 6781 North Thornydale Road, Suite 253, Tucson, AZ 85741.