Donald J. Traczyk

Donald Joseph Traczyk, age 76, of Nashwauk, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly at his home on December 23, 2025. His sudden passing has left his family, friends, and all who knew him shocked and deeply saddened.

Donald was born on October 7, 1949, in Minneapolis, MN, to Andrew Traczyk and Francis Bednerek. After trade school, Donald drafted into the U.S. Army. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War as an 3rd Baton-16th artillery, completing 2 years of active duty. During his service, Donald earned the National Defense Service Medal, and qualified as a Sharpshooter with the M16 rifle, Superior Public Service Medal, M-14 Rifle Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal. He completed his service with an Honorable Discharge in 1971, following his deployment in Vietnam.

Following his military service, Donald worked as a bricklayer with his brother. He did odds/end jobs until he landed his employment with Consolidated Freight Way Trucking Company. He devoted 30 years as a dockworker until his retirement in 2001.

He spent much of his life in NE Minneapolis and moved to northern Minnesota in 2004, where he built a life rooted in hard work, family, and community. Donald was known for his strong work ethic, his willingness to help others, and his straightforward, dependable nature.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, working on projects, spending time outdoors, or time with family, and he especially treasured the time spent with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Donald’s presence will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Donald is survived and missed by his loving wife of 41 years, Kathy, his dog Ryder, his three children, Cindy (Brian) of Warba, MN, Mike (Sarah) of Green River, UT, Becky (Dan) of St. Paul, 8 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren. Siblings; Patricia (Jerry), Ray. Many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by parents; Andrew, Francis and Mary Jane. sibling Edward, and his dog Rylie.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:30 am Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church -326 2nd St, Nashwauk, MN. Visitation will be 6-8 pm Friday, January 2, 2026, with a Recitation of the Rosary at 7 pm, followed by a time of sharing at Dougherty Funeral Home in Hibbing. Visitation will continue at 10:30 am on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church. Military burial at the Nashwauk Cemetery. Donald would want everyone to come in casual attire. Donald’s quote “See You on The Other Side.”

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and condolences during this difficult time.