Madison — Don Orr, age 97, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. A much-loved father, husband, grandparent, and friend, he lived a long life marked by kindness, resilience, and deep devotion to his family.

Don was born on March 19, 1928, in Waukon, Iowa, to Bert and Kathryn Orr. During his senior year of high school, Don and his family moved to Madison. He graduated from Madison West High School in 1945 and went on to earn his degree from Wisconsin State College–Whitewater.

Don began his career as an educator at Omro High School in Omro, Wisconsin. After a short time in teaching, he accepted a position with J.H. Findorff & Sons Lumber & Supply Co. in their sales division, handling both wholesale and retail lumber sales. With his good looks and natural charm, Don became an early local celebrity as “Bill Build It” in the company’s commercial advertisements.

A large portion of Don’s sales involved self-built garage kits, which were especially popular in the 1950s before attached garages became common alongside post-war car ownership. His love of building soon extended beyond sales, as customers began asking if he knew someone who could construct the garages. Don stepped in himself, and before long, he expanded from building garages to building homes and small apartment complexes. He formed Orr Construction and later joined a larger development firm, building multiple homes in Madison’s rapidly growing Greentree neighborhood. Don took great pride in building his family’s home in Orchard Ridge. A home that he lived in until only last August.

Don later spent a brief period working for Wisconsin Bell during a time of tremendous growth and innovation in telecommunications, including the introduction of Touch-Tone service. While the work was fast-paced and involved extensive travel, Don missed being close to his family. Seeking a better balance, he returned to education, accepting a position with the Madison School System as Chief Purchasing Agent.

Don retired in 1990, but retirement did not slow him down. Each morning, he and his dignified group of Westside friends could be found holding court over pancakes and coffee at the Copper Top Restaurant. Beyond this daily ritual, Don continued to live life fully and energetically right up to his final days.

Don met the love of his life, Bonnie Wong, while walking on State Street in 1946. They were married on August 9, 1947, at the Presbyterian Church on State Street. Their marriage was the foundation of a joyful home and served as a lasting example of love and partnership for their family.

Don was happiest when he was getting things done—camping, building, working, and helping others. He believed in staying busy, exploring the world, appreciating its beauty, and spending meaningful time with family. He passed these values on to his children and grandchildren, encouraging independence while always offering guidance and support. His deep love for Bonnie was his greatest gift to his family and shaped the warmth and happiness of their home.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Don and Bonnie took their children on many camping adventures, creating cherished family memories. Don also enjoyed hunting with his sons and proudly watching them play football. The Green Bay Packers’ glory years were often celebrated with halftime tackle football games in the yard—a yard Don proudly said looked like a well-worn playground.

Beyond raising their own children, Don and Bonnie opened their home to children with special needs from rural communities who required additional support due to vision or hearing impairments. Their dinner table was always full, and their home was always welcoming.

Don is survived by his children, Dennis (Sue), Kathy Thompson, David (Ann), and Bryan (Tracey); grandchildren Jamie, Chris, Jacy, Franz, Meghan, Tyler, and Ryan; daughter-in-law Senna, her granddaughter Brianna; sister-in-law Joann Orr; and six great-grandchildren. He is further survived by other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie; his son, Rodney; a great-grandchild; son-in-law Bob; and his brother, Harvey.

A visitation for Don will be held on Saturday, February 28, at Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ, 1501 Gilbert Road, beginning at 10:00 a.m., with a memorial service to follow at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ.

The family extends special thanks to Don’s niece, Peggy Parish, for her devoted care of Bonnie and Don over many years. They also wish to thank UW Hospital, Meriter Hospital, and All Saints Senior Living for their compassion, care, and attentiveness shown to Don and his family.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services

3610 Speedway Rd       Madison

608-238-3434