We are saddened to share that Donald Robert Easterling of Pewaukee, WI, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026 after a courageous battle with ALS. Donald was born on April 6,1945 in Shawano, Wisconsin, to Naomi and Robert Easterling.

Donald was a devoted husband, beloved father, proud United States Marine, dedicated member of Redeemer United Church of Christ, and longtime resident of the Village of Pewaukee. He served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War (1963–1967) and was honorably discharged as a Sergeant. During his time at boot camp in San Diego, California, and at El Toro, he discovered a passion for golf that would stay with him for the rest of his life and become a family tradition.

Donald helped organize and found the Pewaukee Redevelopment Corporation, supporting the growth and development of the Village of Pewaukee as it is today. In recognition of his vision and commitment, he was named Pewaukee “Man of the Year,” an honor he truly cherished. He also served on the Pewaukee Zoning Board of Appeals and as Police Commissioner. Throughout his life, Don believed service to family, church, and community wasn’t an obligation—it was a privilege and a way of living. He led with a heart rooted in helping others.

In 1981, Donald founded Easterling & Associates, a manufacturer’s representative sales agency serving lumber yard distributors and roofing supply companies. Over 30 years, the agency represented products including cellulose insulation, door hardware, closet organizers, brick veneer, and roof ventilation across a six-state region. Donald built his approach around education—believing that informed buyers lead to better decisions, stronger relationships, and satisfied customers. His success also gave his family the gift of travel, with memorable trips to Disney, New York City, Hawaii, the Grand Canyon, the Tetons, Montana, Arizona, and many places throughout Europe.

Don and his wife, Caryn, were married for 50 years and raised three accomplished daughters—Amanda, Erin, and Stephanie—who brought him constant joy and deep pride. Above all, Don was a dedicated father. His strength, kindness, and steady commitment to others will continue to shape everyone who knew him. His daughters—Amanda (Chuck) Kirby, Erin (Eric) Flood, and Stephanie (T.J.) Leicht—describe their dad as determined, steady, loving, faithful, and an excellent planner with a strategic mind. He listened with genuine attention, offered guidance without judgment, and consistently put others first. Loyal and trustworthy, he kept his word, he was a protector and a hard worker—someone who solved problems with creativity and uncommon perspective.

Don was especially proud of his six grandchildren and loved being part of their lives. He hoped they’d learn to golf, cheer for Marquette University men’s basketball, and (of course)

root for the Green Bay Packers—while staying open to all sports as a healthy outlet for life’s stress. He treasured time with George and Charlie Kirby, who thought he was hilarious; Samuel and William Flood, who once believed Grandpa was a sports announcer as he narrated their Hot Wheels races in the driveway; and Madeline and Norah Leicht, who called him “Papa” and loved having him nearby—swimming, golfing, and joining in whatever adventures they dreamed up. Whether he was Gramps, Grandpa, or Papa, he was their hero—and he will remain so in the memories of the grandchildren who loved him deeply.

Donald is survived by his wife, Caryn; his sisters, Sheryl Easterling-Marshall and Willa Mack; and his three beloved daughters, sons-in-law, and six grandchildren (named above), all of whom he adored and was incredibly proud of.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Donald’s life on Saturday, May 16th, 2026 at Redeemer United Church of Christ at W220N4915 Town Line Road, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051, with visitation beginning at 1:00 PM and a Memorial service with Military Honors to follow at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Redeemer United Church of Christ (address above) or Breakthrough T1d-SEWI at P.O. Box 5064 Hagerstown, MD 21741-5064.