Donald Joseph Bohnsack

Donald Joseph Bohnsack, 91, of Galena, IL, sadly passed away on March 26, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his wife and children. A funeral mass will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Galena, where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of the mass. Military honors will be presented at the church following the conclusion of the mass by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. The burial will take place at a later date, as cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family. Donald was born on December 16, 1933, to Benjamin and Catherine (Yackey) Bohnsack. He graduated from Galena High School and, in 1953, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps with 10 other young men from Galena. He was stationed in California and Korea during the Korean War, achieving the rank of sergeant before being discharged in 1955. After his return from military service, he began his career as a State Trooper for the Illinois State Police, serving for 26 1/2 years until his retirement. On October 3, 1970, he married Dorothy Vandermillen at St. Mary's Catholic Church in East Dubuque. Together, they purchased a 100-acre farm on the outskirts of town, which they operated with the support of their friends and family. After many years of hard work, Don and Dorothy transitioned from farm life to build a home in the city, where they spent the next 37 years. Don's retirement was short-lived, as he took a job as a tour director for Tri-State Tours. This position allowed him to explore all corners of the country while entertaining travelers on the buses. In his younger years, he enjoyed fishing and took many pheasant-hunting trips to South Dakota with his friends. He had a deep love for birds and could quickly identify all the various visitors to his bird feeders, ensuring that the birds at his home were well-fed, often better than any other dinner guests. Don is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Dorothy, and his children, Maria Bohnsack of Moweaqua, IL, and Andrew (Molly) Bohnsack of Madison, WI. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Darlene, Delbert, Helen, Leroy, Violet, Loretta, Delos, and Jane. A special thanks goes out to Don and Dorothy's wonderful neighbors-Mark and Jamie Moran, Dan Balocca and Lauren Knapp, and Larry Cording-who have shown tremendous love and support over the years, and to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angela, Michelle, and Jill for their care. Instead of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or St. Jude's in memory of Don. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com