Donald James R. Steiner

June 21, 1937 ~ March 21, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Donald (Donnie) of Whitemouth, Manitoba.

He is survived by his wife Karen, sons Paul (Diana) and David (granddaughters Kristen and Leah).

Don was born and raised in Whitemouth where he grew up on the family farm with his two brothers and two sisters.

After high school Don went to work “off farm” trying his hand at different jobs; working for a finance company in Winnipeg and then a trucking contract to haul processed milk for Lucerne from Winnipeg to Kenora. During this time, he realized that the farm was calling, and that education would help him succeed. He graduated from the University of Manitoba with his Diploma in Agriculture in 1965, where he made many life-long “Aggie” friends. 

Don met Karen, a new teacher in town, in 1959. They married in 1961. For over 62 years they were at each other’s side. They worked, supported, and cared for one another through everything life sent their way; the many good times and the challenges.  

Don took over the farm in 1965 and operated it until 2007, when they retired to town. During this time, they raised their two boys and welcomed many nieces and nephews to work during the summer months. Their dairy farm grew over the years to include a beef herd and more land.

Don was a community minded person his whole life, serving on the Redeemer Lutheran Church Council, as a school trustee, on the Whitemouth Hospital, Community Club and Curling Club Boards.

He served on the Board of Directors for Sunova Credit Union along with many other regional organizations. 

He served the residents of the RM of Whitemouth as a Councillor from 1976 – 1980 and as Reeve from 1983 – 1998.  He enjoyed every minute.

Don respected everyone he met and so gained the respect and trust of all who knew him.  He took the time to listen.  He was always ready to help a neighbour.

People from all walks of life would stop in for advice on farming practices, animal husbandry, municipal and political affairs.  Some days the farmhouse kitchen or the milking parlour could be mistaken for a coffee shop.

Family, faith, and love of his fellow man were core to Don.  Grace before meals and church on Sunday.

The farm or “Uncle Donnie’s farm” was the gathering place for his siblings, in-laws and all the nieces and nephews. There were many gatherings and many, many wonderful memories.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 28, at Sobering Funeral Chapel, Beausejour, MB.   Those wishing to remain in their vehicles and listen to the service may do so by parking in the Sobering Funeral Chapel parking lot and tuning your car radio to 98.1 F.M.  Interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Don’s memory would be gratefully received by Redeemer Lutheran Church, Whitemouth, MB, or a charity of your choice.

www.soberingfuneralchapel.com

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