Donald Pomeranke

Donald Charles Pomeranke, Dane, age 78, passed away at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg on Tues. March 26, 2013 surrounded by his family following a courageous battle with bladder cancer. Donald was born on July 21, 1934 to Edward and Rozella (Thompson) Pomeranke. Donald was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Darrell Pomeranke; sister Marlene Schmidt; and brothers-in-law, Richard and Edward Bollig.
Don is survived by his wife of 53 years Betty (Bollig); son James Pomeranke; and daughters, Joan (Tim) Kutz, Jill Pomeranke and Jacklyn Pomeranke (Larry Klein); grandsons, Tyler (Alaina) Kutz, and Drew Kutz; his brother Gary Pomeranke; and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Don was a quiet, but inquisitive man with a keen wit. He adored his wife, children and grandchildren. His daughters will always remember him as their hero. A big, strong man who was never afraid to come to their rescue whether it be to kill a spider or change a flat tire. As an adult, he unconditionally loved his family and was always available with a loving, supportive ear and patient encouragement. After his health failed, you could often find Donald sitting in a chair by the barn or in the machine shop with his son Jim, consulting on farm matters and watching over him (as a wise old owl). He and Betty both loved the farm life and shared a strong work ethic which they passed on to their children.
Don created many happy memories with his grandsons, whether it be attending their sporting events, chasing elusive chickens, playing cards or sharing farming tips. They always brought a twinkle to his eye and big smile to his face.
In addition to running the family farm, Donald worked for the State of Wisconsin at Central Wisconsin Center for 35 years, where he retired as a Supervisor in Stores. Following his retirement, he worked part time at Dane Manufacturing for 10 years.

When farm work allowed, he took the opportunity to go on fishing vacations and explore the world with family and friends. He had the chance to see Africa, China, Central America, Europe and much of the United States. He loved his farm and in his later years would often walk around it checking out the animals and the buildings, surveying his land, making sure all was in order.
The family would like to thank his caregiver Rikki, his Hospice outreach team and the many friends, neighbors and relatives who visited with Dad and supported him as his health declined. A special thank you to his lifelong best friend and neighbor, Dave Meier for the countless hours he helped Dad and Jim on the farm.

Our family will be eternally grateful to the Agrace Hospice team for making our dad's last days comfortable and for helping us with our fears and grief. It brought us solace to know how gently and lovingly you cared for him. Your respect helped him maintain his dignity as his earthly body failed.
Farewell for now Dad, we'll miss you, but it will comfort us to know that you are no longer in pain. It was a privilege to care for you these last few years. We know this is not goodbye forever, but until we meet again in heaven.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 2, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Dane. Rev. Francisco Higuera will officiate. Visitation times will be Monday, April 1, 2013 from 4-7:00 p.m. at the Winn-Cress Funeral Home, 5785 Hwy Q, Waunakee and at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Burial will take place in the church cemetery with full military honors provided by American Legion Post 360 Honors Unit.

What Makes A Dad

God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of ages,
The power of the eagle's flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family's need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
and so He called it...Dad.

Author Unknown