Donald R Paegel

Donald R. Paegel, age 86 of Mankato, was called home Monday, April 14, 2008 from Hillcrest Health Care Center and is now at peace after an amazing journey.

A Celebration of Life service will be held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 17, 2008 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapidan, with Rev. Krista Strum officiating. Interment will be in Calvary Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. on Wednesday at Mankato Mortuary, and continues one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday.

Donald was born September 22, 1921 in Mankato. He was the son of Edward and Helen (Andersen) Paegel. Donald was a 1939 graduate of Mankato High School. He served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII. Donald was united in marriage to Viola Kasabin on January 10, 1959 in Rapidan. He was employed with the city of Mankato for 25 years. Even after he retired, he still observed as a sidewalk supervisor. Donald was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapidan and also the American Legion Post 11. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. Donald also enjoyed having coffee every morning, most recently at the hilltop Hy Vee. Donald, who had a heart of gold, went through life with a smile on his face and an outstretched hand. He knew everyone, everyone knew him, and he was loved by all.

Donald is survived by his three children, James Paegel, John (Traci) Paegel, and Lisa (Aaron) Persons; six grandchildren, Michele and Ashley Paegel, Alexis Paegel, Kevin Paegel-Johnson, and Brett and Erica Persons; sister, Phyllis "Fisso" Veigel; sister-in-law, Monica Paegel; two nieces and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Viola; son, Richard; brother, Gene; and brother-in-law, Thomas Veigel.