Donald E. Olson

Donald E. Olson, age 77, of Waunakee, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on September 29, 2025--the same date his father passed in 1979.

Don was born on May 24, 1948, in Oconto, Wisconsin to Ralph R. Olson and Esther K. (Stepman) Olson. Don graduated from Oconto High School in 1966, UW-Oshkosh in 1970, and completed his Master’s degree at UW-Madison in 1980.

On January 1, 1972, Don married Geraldine (Gerry Norton) in their hometown of Oconto. Don began his career as a Credit Union Auditor for the State of Wisconsin. In 1977 he joined Wisconsin Power & Light (now Alliant Energy) where he served as a Credit and Collections Manager for 32 years. After retiring, he worked part-time as an Analyst with State Collection Services until 2014.

Don was a devoted husband and father. He and Gerry raised two children, Eric and Emily, in Waunakee. He was a man of faith and dedicated to the Catholic Church throughout his life. He was generous, giving his time and energy as an active member of the parish Care Team and the Knights of Columbus.

Don was a lifelong learner and avid reader especially when it came to finance and investing. As a sports fan, Don took great joy in following the Packers, Brewers, and Badgers. He will be remembered for his steady presence, devotion, kindness, and wisdom that he brought to the many extended family members and friends whose lives he touched.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Geraldine; one son, Eric, Madison, WI; one daughter, Emily (Matthew) Jacoby, Sun Prairie, WI; three grandchildren, Carter, Devin, and Aleyah Jacoby; sister, Mary Jane (Bob) Bake; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Esther, and brothers Bob and Tom Olson.

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 10, 2025, at St John’s Catholic Church, 209 South Street, Waunakee. Visitation will be from 9-11:00 AM. Services will be at 11:00 AM with burial to follow in the church cemetery followed by a reception at Rex’s Innkeeper.

Winn-Cress Funeral Home

5785 Hwy Q

Waunakee, WI