Donald R. Braatz, age 87, of Shawano, passed away on Independence Day, Thursday, July 4, 2024, in King WI. Donald was born on December 19, 1936, in Shawano to the late Rupert and Dorothy (Rusch) Braatz. Following school Don enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served his country honorably as an Ammunitions Specialist until retiring from the military. On June 6, 1959, Don was united in marriage to Sally Clayton at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shawano. Don and Sally traveled all over the world with the Air Force while raising their family.  They spent time living in Germany, the Philippines, Alabama, Montana, Florida, Washington, Thailand and South Dakota. In 2010 the couple finally returned to Don's hometown of Shawano where they enjoyed camping, drinking beer, and fishing. More than anything Don enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather and he will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Donald is survived by: his wife, Sally; children, Jeff (Karen) Braatz of Bryant, Barb Braatz of Iron River, and Joe (Lee) Braatz of Shawano; a daughter-in-law Brenda Braatz of Sparta; 12 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and a brother, Gerald 'Jerry' Braatz of CT. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Donald is preceded in death by a son, Mark Braatz, a sister Bonnie, and brothers Harvey, Lawrence and Eddie as well as his parents.

A committal service will be held at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, Wisconsin at a later date. Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.