Donald Dale “Don” Morrell

Our beloved father, Donald Dale “Don” Morrell passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024, at the age of 94.

He was born on July 13, 1930, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Kenneth and Iva Morrell. His childhood in Milwaukee instilled a lifelong passion for sports and fitness, which led to his earning a letter in gymnastics from West Division High School. He loved the Badgers, Brewers, Bucks, Golden Eagles, and Packers, and was always happy to talk sports with anyone.

He was known for his quick wit, intellect and kindness, and in his day, for his athleticism and strength. He was a good man and well loved by all who knew him.

Don leaves behind his six children; Shannon Morrell of Wabeno, WI, Jessica Morrell of Clackamas, OR, Monica Morrell of Milwaukee, WI, Kylee Morrell of Berlin, WI, Mitchell Morrell of Oswego, IL, and Colin Morrell (Karen) of Burbank, WA; along with eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his best friend and brother-in-law, John Cotter; sisters-in-law, Lois Hamlin, Fern Bacher, and Shelley Neuman; as well as sixteen nieces and nephews.

Don met his wife, Patricia June Zoellner, in 1950, at their place of employment in Milwaukee. They were married later that same year. The following year they moved to Merrill, Wisconsin, Patricia’s hometown. Even though he was born in Milwaukee, Don found that he preferred the small town life and quiet of the Northwoods.

Don worked for Marathon Electric in Wausau as a machinist and as his family grew looked for other opportunities. He eventually took a job with Louis Allis Corporation in Milwaukee, making the four hour commute to Merrill on the weekends, until moving his family to Grafton, WI. He eventually switched jobs again and worked for the USPS in Grafton until his retirement in 1985.

After retirement, Don and Patricia moved to Lake Van Zile in Forest County, Wisconsin. He took a position working part time for the Wisconsin DNR as a creel clerk, which he enjoyed, because it gave him a chance to talk fishing, another of his passions, with other anglers. 

Don is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; his brother, Robert; his sister, Linda; his grand-daughter, Naomi Ransom; along with several beloved brothers and sisters-in-law. 

Another of Don’s passions was playing sheepshead with his in-laws. Maybe now they can all get together and resume where they left off. Before his passing, Don defined heaven as the “great sheepshead game in the sky.”

Despite his failing health and imminent death, Don continued to be witty until the very end. He sang and listened to many of his favourite old tunes remembering the oldest and most obscure of lyrics. He looked forward every day to competing with his kids in Wordle and Spelling Bee from the NYT games website, having learned the basics of a computer at 92. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him; in particular, his children. 

Per Don’s request, a memorial service will be held sometime in the spring at St. John’s Church in Laona, WI, followed by a celebration of his life. 

Our family owes a debt of gratitude to the staff at Ovation House in Milwaukee who cared for our father in his final weeks, as well as the nurses and care providers from Horizon Hospice. Thank you.