Donald F Konrad

Funeral services for Donald F. Konrad, 86, of Lacona, will be Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Milo. Interment will be at the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Lacona following the service.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home in Milo. A rosary will be held at 3:30 p.m. prior to the visitation.

Memorials may be made in care of Don's family and will be designated at a later date.

Donald F. Konrad and his twin brother Darrel were born July 8, 1939, at the family farm near Bauer, Iowa to Rene and Annie Konrad. Don attended Rosemount School and then graduated from the Lacona High School in 1958 and proudly served in the Army National Guard from 1958 - 1963. On July 4th, 1962, he met the love of his life, Audrey Curtis. The two were married on August 24, 1963, and together they built a beautiful life. Their union was blessed with three children: Brian, Mike and Sherry.

Don dedicated over 50 years of hard work to the Lacona Coop. He was a man of quiet strength and deep devotion - the rock and cornerstone of his family. He loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with all his heart, and nothing brought him greater joy than being surrounded by them. He was immensely proud of his children and took special pride in the service of his two sons, who selflessly served their country - one in the U.S. Army and the other in the U.S. Navy. Their dedication reflected the same values of honor and commitment that Don lived by every day.

Whether behind the wheel of a tractor, tilling the soil, or helping bring in the harvest, he was truly in his element. He spent countless hours as his son Mike's right-hand man on the farm, always ready to lend a hand. He also enjoyed mowing his lawn, tinkering in his shop, or simply relaxing on the front deck with a cup of coffee, soaking in the peaceful countryside.

Don was an avid sports fan and loved cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes (his favorite), Iowa State Cyclones, the NFL, NASCAR and WWE. His enthusiasm was infectious - so much that in the heat of the moment, he'd often jump up to his feet in excitement, sometimes even missing his chair when trying to sit back down.

At first glance, he may have come across as tough or reserved, but it didn't take long to see the warmth, humor, and compassion that defined who he really was. Beneath his rugged exterior was a fun-loving soul who brought light and laughter wherever he went. He had a gift for making people smile - whether through his sharp wit, unforgettable one-liners, or playful teasing.

Don was a courageous man, best exemplified by his decision to donate bone marrow to his twin brother, Darrel. Together, they took part in one of the earliest bone marrow transplant trials - a groundbreaking and risky procedure at the time. Both men faced the unknown with strength and resilience, and emerged from the experience with remarkable success.

Don genuinely cared about people. He always took the time to ask how you were doing - and he truly listened. It wasn't just small talk to him. He remembered the little things, the small details from previous conversations, and he'd bring them up the next time you spoke - a gesture that made you feel truly seen and valued.

He especially loved being around children and took great delight in making them laugh, whether with a gentle ear twist or the playful flip of his fake tooth. His sense of humor and gentle mischief were unforgettable.

Don was a hero in the eyes of his children - Brian, Mike, and Sherry - who deeply admired the man he was. His strength, wisdom, and unwavering love shaped their lives in countless ways. He was the best father, husband, grandpa, brother, uncle and friend.

Don passed away, July 18, 2025. Preceding him in death were his parents, Rene and Annie Konrad; and siblings: Norma Wallace, Wilma Dittmer, Flavian "Peck" Konrad, Darrel Konrad, Rosie Lepley, and infant brothers: Eddie Jo and Lyle.

Don will be greatly missed by his wife of 62 years, Audrey Konrad; children: Brian Konrad, Mike Konrad, and Sherry (Albert) Putz; grandchildren: Briana Konrad, Shane (Rhonda) Konrad, Joe Konrad, Luke (Wendi) Putz, Austin (Ellie) Putz, Logan (Connor) Putz, and Brandi (Charlie Smith) Putz; great grandchildren: Ayla, Kiara (Mark), Mathiew, Weston, Lennon, Aiden, Cooper, and two more on the way; siblings: Bernie (Ann) Konrad, Patsy (Carl) Marsh, and Bob Konrad; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

The world is a little dimmer without him, but the memories and laughter he gave us will live on forever.