Donald William Almquist

With profound sadness and enduring gratitude, we announce the passing of Donald “Don” Almquist, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, U.S. Marine, civic leader, and community champion. Don passed away on July 23, 2025, at the age of 93 at the VA Hospital, leaving behind a legacy defined by service to his country, his community, and most of all, his family.

Born on September 7, 1931, in Moline, Illinois, Don lived a life rooted in honor, discipline, and compassion. He served in the United States Marine Corps for 23 and a half years, with distinction in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He retired in 1972 at the esteemed rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant (E9), one of the highest enlisted ranks in the Marine Corps. His military service—focused on logistics and accounting—was marked by resilience and leadership under the most trying circumstances. Upon completing his tour with the Marine Air Control Squadron-3, he was presented with a plaque bearing the poem “An Ode to the Indispensable Man” by Anonymous, along with a note signed from the squadron that read:, “Although it has been said that there is no such person as the indispensable man, you have certainly fallen within that esteemed category…as a ‘father-image”, and as a friend, your presence will be missed by all who have known you.”

After retiring from the military, Don and his wife, Beverly, his beloved partner for 73 years, settled in Greenfield, Wisconsin—a community that would become his cherished lifelong home. There, he began a second career as a U.S. postal worker, serving the Bay View neighborhood of Milwaukee. Don brought the same sense of discipline, responsibility, and kindness to his postal route that had defined his military service. Known for his strong work ethic, he became a familiar and well-loved presence in the neighborhood.

Beyond his professional life, Don quickly became a pillar of the Greenfield community. His tireless involvement in civic activities, volunteer efforts, and local events earned him the affectionate nickname “Mr. Greenfield.” Over the next several decades, Don would leave an indelible mark on the city he loved. He served five terms as an alderperson and 29 years on the Greenfield School Board, including roles as President, Vice President, and Treasurer. His vision and commitment were instrumental in the development of new schools, parks, the Greenfield Public Library, Greenfield High School, a police station, a community center, and Fire Station #2. In 1995, he proudly helped launch the city’s first Junior ROTC program, sharing the values of leadership, discipline, and public service with a new generation.

A tireless volunteer, Don gave generously of his time to over a dozen community and veteran organizations, including the Greenfield Lions Club, Greenfield Education Foundation, Golden Agers, the Chamber of Commerce, United Seniors of Wisconsin, Greenfield Historical Society, Boy scouts of America, Greenfield Little League, the Moose Club, the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Vietnam Veterans of America. He served on the board of the United Seniors of Wisconsin and was a frequent presence at civic events and community fundraisers.

Don’s contributions to Greenfield Parks and Recreation were legendary. A vocal champion of the department throughout his time in office, Don also quite literally rolled up his sleeves—flipping more than 12,000 pancakes at community breakfasts with Santa, the Easter Bunny, and other events. He was honored as the 25th inductee into the Greenfield Parks and Recreation Hall of Fame. In 2019, the City of Greenfield renamed Honey Bear Park to Don Almquist Park in recognition of his lifelong dedication to public service. The honor was especially meaningful following his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, allowing the community to celebrate and thank Don during his lifetime.

His service to society extends beyond the City limits. As a member of Lions International for over 50 years, he was honored with a variety of awards, including the President’s Award, the Governor’s Award, and the Melvin Jones Fellow Award, which is the highest form of recognition by Lions International given to those who embody humanitarian ideals. He was also honored with the 1996 Achievement Award as one of Wisconsin’s Outstanding Vietnam Veterans.

Those who knew Don remember his humility, his tireless work ethic, and his gift for bringing people together. His influence reached across generations. He proudly handed diplomas to his children and grandchildren at Greenfield High School, and his legacy lives on through their continued service: his eldest son, Donald, followed his path into the Marine Corps, while sons David and Darren each retired after 32 years as firefighter-paramedics with the Greenfield Fire Department. His grandson, Justin, currently serves as President of the Greenfield Lions Club.
Don strived to enrich the lives of everyone he met and worked to build a better future for all. He was preceded in death by his father, William; stepmother, Jessie; mother, Alice; and sisters, Emmeline (Dave) and Kathryn (Mel). He is survived by his devoted wife, Beverly; their four children: Donald (Sue), Renee (Tom), David (Maria), and Darren (Joan); his siblings, Loretta (the late Ted) and John (Janice); 10 grandchildren: Edwin (David), Lyann (Martin), Donald Christopher (Balitta), Beau (Katie), Amanda (Ollie), Stephanie (Seohui), Justin (Chris), Alivia, Claire, and Adam; 10 great-grandchildren: Sean, Devin, Kira, Zoe, Peyton, Oliver, Milo, Adelia, Paxton, and Everett; and one great-great-grandchild, Cadyn. Don also leaves behind extended family, dear friends, and a grateful community who will forever cherish his memory.

The Family would like to thank the VA Homebound Team, Synergy Home Care, and St Croix Hospice. They would also like to give a heartfelt thanks to the 9C North Heroes' Corner Hospice Care Team at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center. We thank them for their compassionate care before they presented him with a final salute.

Though he is no longer with us, his spirit and boundless love remain eternal. To Donald, his family meant everything, and he will be deeply missed by them.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice in Don's honor. Here are a few charities he held close to his heart.Greenfield High School - ROTC program, Greenfield Lions club,  or Greendale VFW Post 10519.