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Donald Pavletich Obituary
Brookfield - age 81 of Brookfield, WI, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 05, 2020. Don is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Constance M. Pavletich; his children Diane (Timothy) Liewen, Dean (Traci) Pavletich, Denice (Thomas) Abel and Daniel (Michelle) Pavletich; his grandchildren Amanda (Jonathan) Friedland, Eric (Ashley) Abel, Morgan (Charles) Sellinger, Emily, Anna and Matthew Liewen, Ami, Emma, Sarah, Jacob, Kaitlin and Elizabeth, Pavletich; his great grandchildren Maximus and Bodi Friedland and Adaline Abel; his siblings Joseph (Darlene) Pavletich and Virginia (Bernard) Stenlund along with many more family and friends.
Don was born and raised in West Allis, he served in the US Army and then went on to play Major League Baseball. Don was a family man and proud grandfather, who attended every grandchild's game or event that he could. He was also an avid dog lover, hunter, golfer, plane enthusiast and sports fan. Don will be missed terribly by his family and friends.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 10 from 5 pm until 7 pm at Becker Ritter Funeral Home (14075 W. North Ave, Brookfield). A second visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 11, at St. Joseph Congregation (12130 W. Center St., Wauwatosa) from 11 am until 11:45 am with eulogies starting at 11:45 am. A Mass of Christian burial will start at 12 noon with burial to follow at Wisconsin Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Elmbrook Humane Society.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Pavletich
Dr. Gerald Hisert
July 6, 2021
Looking for some old teammates from 1958 in the Army while serving with Don. He was the best catch I ever pitched to and a great friends traveled with him in his new car many time. So sorry to see he has passed would loved to talked over old times with "cookie" his nickname in service. I hope he had chance to talk about his time in service with his family. If any one would like to discuss his exploits do not hesitate to contact me. Phone 5182315527 or email
steven goad
October 26, 2020
From my first year of little league in 1959, to my last year of varsity baseball, your '59 REDS number "8" was on my uniform. Rest in Peace, Don, and thanks for great memories. Steve Goad, Dayton, Ohio
Christopher Goodwin
March 15, 2020
Just a fan of Mr. Pavletich from his days in MLB. My condolences to his family.
Donna Preston
March 9, 2020
Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time.
Donna Preston
Mary Lou Fink's daughter
Joe Wright
March 9, 2020
My deepest sympathies on the loss of your beloved Don. I am a 68 year old lifelong Reds fan, who has lived his whole life in Cincinnati. I will always remember Don Pavletich as being my favorite Red when I was growing up. I liked him better than Robinson, Pinson, even Pete! He provided me with a lot of thrilling memories. May he rest in peace.
March 9, 2020
My heartfelt sympathies to you, Connie and family. Don was a close friend of mine for 75 years. God bless. Artie Poitz
Jeff Weller
March 8, 2020
As a Cincinnati Reds fan for 60 years, the name Don Pavletich brings a smile. #8 was an outstanding catcher and 1st baseman. Thanks for the memories and rest well #8. Your life was a Home Run.
Richard Morrissey
March 8, 2020
Tremendous catcher,if memory serves me right, he was back up catcher to the great Johnny Bench in
Cincinnati. Graduated with him from West Allis Nathan Hale in 1956. RIP Don
March 8, 2020
Someone I considered a friend passed away this past week. Don Pavletich was a wonderful person. He never quit swinging for the fences. Don remembered to touch them all on his way to home plate after "going yard". He took time out from his schedule to autograph a baseball card for my grandson. My grandson was so appreciative. Don had many quality at bats, but most of all, he was a quality guy... on and off the field. Here's to you Don. A true Louisville Slugger!
March 8, 2020
Someone I considered a friend passed away this past week. Don Pavletich was a wonderful person. He never quit swinging for the fences. Don remembered to touch them all on his way to home plate after "going yard". He took time out from his schedule to autograph a baseball card for my grandson. My grandson was so appreciative. Don had many quality at bats, but most of all, he was a quality guy... on and off the field. Here's to you Don. A true Louisville Slugger!
Al Berman
March 8, 2020
Don was one of the best athletes and baseball players to come out of the Milwaukee area. He was good enough to play professional baseball for years.
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