Donald K. Stanske

A Legacy of Quiet Strength: Remembering Don Stanske

The Foundation of a Century

Don Stanske, a man whose life was defined by quiet strength and an unwavering moral compass, reached his final "finish line" on January 29, 2026, at the age of 95. Born in 1930 to a family of German and Polish heritage, Don was raised with the rugged work ethic of the American heartland. While he grew up on his parents’ farm in Colorado, he spent much of his youth assisting on his grandfather’s farm as well. It was here, between two family homesteads, that Don learned early on that a person’s worth was found in their honesty and their grit—lessons that would guide him through nearly a century of life.

The resilience Don was known for as a 95-year-old was forged in the dirt of those family farms. He often shared stories of the daily discipline required to keep the operations running, including the battle of wills he faced every morning in the barn. One of Don’s regular tasks was milking a particularly difficult cow who seemed to make it her mission to kick over the milk bucket just as he finished. It was through the patience required to deal with a stubborn animal and the persistence to start over and finish the job that Don developed the "no-bologna" character that would become his trademark.

A Life of Service and Faith

While many spend their lives pursuing material success, Don chose a path of spiritual service. As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses for over 75 years, his faith was the engine of his life. From the age of 18, he dedicated himself to a full-time ministry, a calling that required both immense discipline and a deep love for people. Throughout his decades of ministry, Don was never alone; he was part of a global brotherhood, and in his final years, he enjoyed the wonderful support of his many friends within the congregation. To Don, these weren't just fellow believers; they were a lifeline of companionship and care.

Generations of Love

In his later years, Don came to live with his daughter, finding peace and sanctuary in the quiet beauty of the mountains. He was blessed with a supportive family and a daughter who cared for him deeply, ensuring that his final chapter was lived with the dignity and comfort he had earned. Under her watchful and devoted care, Don enjoyed the simple pleasures that brought him the most happiness: sharing his favorite dishes of sauerkraut and coffee cake, and spending time with his grandson’s dog, Chloe, whom he loved dearly. Most importantly, he cherished the time spent with his great-grandchildren, Isla and Link, who brought a special light to his later years. This season of his life was a testament to the strength of four generations of family bonds and the "Good Part" of a life well-lived.

Even as he reached the age of 95, Don’s eyes were always on the horizon. He held a deep and firm belief in the promise of a paradise on earth, a time when the struggles of the present would be replaced by peace and restoration. For Don, this wasn't just a distant thought, but a certain reality—he passed away with the unwavering confidence that we will see him again. This hope was the anchor of his life and the source of the remarkable peace he carried with him until the end.

To those who knew him best, Don was simply strong. He faced the challenges of aging with the same grit he used in the barn as a boy. He reached the end of his life clear-minded and at peace. Don passed away on January 29th, leaving behind a legacy of integrity that serves as a blueprint for the next generation. He lived 95 years with dignity, and he leaves this world having completed his mission exactly as he intended.