Donald LaFave, Jr.

Donald F. LaFave, Jr., age 67, of Madison, passed away on Friday, March 20th, following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Don was born on November 2, 1958, in Sheboygan to the late Donald and Mary Catherine (Hildebrand) LaFave. He graduated from South High School in Sheboygan and went on to receive a Bachelor's degree in theater from Edgewood College, followed by a Bachelor's degree in Rehabilitation Psychology and a Master of Science degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, both from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Don dedicated his lengthy career to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities—a vocation he deeply loved. He retired from Responsive Solutions, Inc. in August of 2025 after over 20 years of service, having previously worked at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Waisman Center. A devoted specialist, Don cultivated profound and enduring relationships with those he supported. Whether providing direct care, designing and building home safety modifications, or managing the Dane County Safe House, he merged a natural kindness with a vibrant, creative spirit, offering steadfast compassion during life's most difficult chapters.

His professional commitment frequently exceeded the boundaries of traditional care. Whether he was meticulously preparing picnic baskets for theater excursions or assisting a colleague who affectionately referred to him as her "interior designer," Don ensured his presence was felt when it was needed most. Through his lighthearted humor and patience, he brought a sense of joy to everyday experiences, such as beach outings with clients. His ingenuity was evident in his unique problem-solving—ranging from the design of specialized protective gear to the creation of custom window treatments—all aimed at enhancing the daily safety and comfort of those he served. This devotion culminated in significant acts of service, such as accompanying a family to Florida to enable a client to bid a final farewell to their aging grandparents.

Throughout decades of committed service, Don cultivated profound and enduring relationships. His sincere desire to help and his capacity to find light in trying circumstances left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered; the mere sound of a client's voice, even in his final days, would bring a wide smile to his face. Don leaves behind a significant legacy of compassion and innovation and will be deeply missed.

Don originally intended to pursue a career in theater, even serving two summers as stage manager for Peninsula Players Theater in Door County, Wisconsin. This early experience with layout and design proved valuable in his later work, helping him design functional, safe, and appropriate settings for his clients.

A true adventurer, Don took many memorable trips around the globe, including travels throughout Europe and a recent, long-planned trip to Egypt. He possessed a deep appreciation for exploring new places and connecting with new people, highlighted by a trip to Russia and Finland with the First Unitarian Society of Madison.

Don is survived by his brothers, Gerry LaFave of Sheboygan, Bob (Tippy) LaFave of Sheboygan, and Michael (Diane) Maxson of Greendale. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews: Rianna (Perry) Kaiser, Holland LaFave, Andrew LaFave, Michael LaFave, Jennifer (Bryan) McDonald, Amy Shannon, Ethan Maxson, and Claudia (Gabe) Maxson. He also leaves behind several great-nieces and great-nephews: Elaine Kaiser, Luci Kaiser, Theodore LaFave, Gabriel LaFave, Ian LaFave, Cora McDonald, Caleb McDonald, and Silas McDonald.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Cathy.

Don will be memorialized at a private service in Madison. A visitation followed by a celebration of Don's remarkable life will be held beginning at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the Landmark Auditorium, 900 University Bay Drive in Madison, WI. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Responsive Solutions, Inc. The family would also like to thank the First Unitarian Society of Madison for their assistance with Don's final arrangements.