Donald John Fiedler

Donald John Fiedler, Director of The Fiedler Family, has left an incredible mark on our lives with his wisdom, love and unwavering commitment to family and friends. He passed away peacefully on November 28, 2024 at the age of 96 and was a longtime resident of Neenah, WI since 1955.
Donald was born January 18, 1928, in Pennsylvania, son of Donald J. Fiedler Sr. and Edna Fiedler. He graduated, and then entered the Navy during WW2 and he delightfully tells that they called the war off when they heard he was boarding his ship. Then shortly after he returned from the war, heard there were jobs in Wisconsin. Donald met his wife Kathleen A. Gage in Beloit, WI 1948. They married in 1949 and had 4 children and opened their home to 49 foster children throughout the years. Donald worked for Wisconsin "Ma" Bell for 38 years before retiring in the late 1980's.
Donald was a devoted volunteer, leader, Captain, director, board and chair member with The Boy's & Girl's Brigade, Neenah, for 60+ years, including many years at Onaway Island. His leadership and vision inspired countless others to get involved and make a difference. He earned the S.F. Shattuck Award for his time and dedication to Brigade in 1995. Many will remember him for several years serving as a Rough Craftsman, working at the warehouse with the annual Wreath Sale and weekends on the Island. He also enjoyed time seeing his many friends at Wednesday morning coffee.
Donald loved happy hours, traveling, being snow birds in Florida, playing shuffleboard, attending Green Bay Packer parties and the many friendships made throughout the years.
His memory will be cherished by his children: Nancy (Rick) Taylor, Neenah; Mary Hamann, Milwaukee, Christopher "Chris" (Darcie) Fiedler, Kaukauna; and Jimmy Immel, Menasha. He is the proud grandfather of 11 grandchildren: Teresa (Troy) Buss, Brian (Katie) Fiedler, Angela (Ryan) LaCount, Erin (Todd) Arnold, David (Laura) Taylor, Justin (Elizabeth) Finch, Jason (Kristen) Finch, Tiffany Schmalz, Ryan (Lindsey) Hamann, Brittany (Jordan) Schroeder and Christopher (Jasmine) Fiedler; 19 great grandchildren:, Drew, McKiley, Bryson, Kenzly, Katelyn, Olivia, Logan, Caleb, Maddie, Kya, Jeremy, Karter, Tristan, Rowan, Gavin, Gage, Hadlee, Hayden, Hunter and a great-great grandchild due in May. A wonderful sister: Sister Mary Louise Fiedler, New York; a cousin Patsy (David), Appleton; Sister-in-law: Janice Gage, Janesville.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Kathleen A. Gage his wife of 67 years; a son and daughter-in-law Michael and Paula Fiedler; Brothers-in-law Howard Gage; Jack Gage, Charles Gage; Aunt, Belle Fiedler and many other relatives and friends.
Memorial services will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday December 14, 2024 at the Boy's and Girl's Brigade 109 W. Columbian Ave. Neenah followed by a luncheon and memorial gathering in the Shattuck Room. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are appreciated to create a Scholarship for Camp Onaway.
Donald's family would like to express a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Theda Clark Regional Hospital and New Perspectives Island Shores for their kindness and compassion. The Kessler Fahrenkrug Funeral Home is assisting the family.