Donald E. Gensmer

Donald E. Gensmer, age 92, of Winona, formerly of Rollingstone, passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Sugar Loaf Senior Living, surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born on October 24, 1931, in Lewiston, MN, to Ervin and Selma (Hoppe) Gensmer.  He was baptized by Pastor Rudolph Korn on November 8, 1931, and was confirmed at St. Martin’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Winona on March 30, 1947.  Don was united in marriage with Nancy Anderson on October 2, 1953, at Bethesda Lutheran Church in South St. Paul.

He was employed for many years with Scharmer Construction until his retirement.  Don was a member of the Valley Riders, First Ev. Lutheran Church in Minnesota City, and he was a former member of St. Martin’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Winona.  Don’s strong and abiding faith was a blessing to him throughout his life, and it was a great comfort to him and his family, especially during his last days.

Don will be remembered for his love of the outdoors hunting, fishing, boating on the river, flowers, gardening, camping, and horseback riding.  Over the years, he enjoyed the company of many beloved dogs, spent memorable summers helping on his Uncle Herbie Gensmer’s farm, and he had fun with his Ford Thunderbird.

Don’s greatest joy in life was his family, and he especially cherished the time he spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  When looking back on his life, Don reflected, “I would live it all the same.”

Don is lovingly survived by his wife, Nancy; children: Kim (Arlo) Thorsness and Kristine (Gary) Schultz; grandchildren: Bradley (Trishia Abnet) Thorsness, Tracey (Joshua) Smale, Heidi (Chad) Heath, and Julie (Jesse) Morehouse; great-grandchildren: Lincoln, Archer, Anthem, Hopelyn, Neallon, Wyatt, Jacob, Emmett, Skyler, and Sawyer; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Florence Schumacher.

Visitation will be held from 10 AM until the funeral service at 11 AM on Friday, May 31, 2024, at First Ev. Lutheran Church in Minnesota City.  Pastor David Eckert will officiate.  

Following the service, a luncheon and reception will be held at the Elks Club in Goodview.

Don will be laid to rest in a family burial at Trinity Ev. Lutheran Cemetery in Norton at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to First Ev. Lutheran Church in Minnesota City, Gundersen Medical Foundation, Winona Dialysis, or to a charity of choice.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Don’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.