Donald F Pietsch

Donald F. Pietsch, age 92, of St. Paul Park, passed away peacefully at Regions Hospital on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Don was born on March 28, 1933, in St Paul, Minnesota, to Elmer and Florence (Mundt) Pietsch. He was one of four children, born into a family of truck farmers. Don grew up loving fishing, hunting, and gardening. He graduated from South St. Paul High School in 1951. He served in the Army for several years, went on to work at Armour and Co., Koch Refining, and the State of Minnesota, where he retired. In 1956, Don met Joyce Krech while teaching Sunday School, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in St. Paul and from that moment on, they were a match. Together, they raised three children: Cindy, Lori, and Daniel. Family was always at the center of Don's life. Don spent time learning trades. He loved connecting with people, had a big heart, and was always willing to lend a hand. Social by nature, Don enjoyed playing cards, games, fishing, hunting, square dancing, family & friend gatherings, and watching his grandkids/great-grandkids in all their activities. Don lived a life rooted in hard work, honesty, and unwavering support for his family, and friends. He led by example; was deeply grounded in his faith, enjoyed telling stories and enjoyed the outdoors. Don is survived by his devoted wife, Joyce; children, Cindy (John), Lori (Jim), and Daniel (Rochelle); grandchildren, Lynnette (David), Michelle (Jeff), Nicole (Nick), Marie, and Daniel; great-grandchildren, Greta, Archer, Levon, and Juniper; siblings, Marlys, Lois, and Richard (Kathryn); and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
He was welcomed into heaven by his parents, Elmer and Florence; infant son Glen; great granddaughter Jane. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at St. Andrews Lutheran Church,1,000 Portland Ave, St. Paul Park, Minnesota. Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service on Sunday, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. A Luncheon will follow the service. A military burial honors at Fort Snelling will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, at Como Friends, 1224 Estabrook Drive, St Paul, MN 55103. https://comofriends.org To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald, please visit our floral store.