Donald Trom

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Donald “Red” Trom, 85, of Owatonna, died peacefully with his family at his side on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009 at Owatonna Hospital after a 13 year battle with cancer.

Donald was born Dec. 1, 1923 in Blooming Prairie, the son of Alvin and Mary (Motl) Trom. He was raised near Blooming Prairie and there he attended country school. Donald enlisted into the United States Navy in 1944 and served in the South Pacific Theatre during WWII. After his honorable discharge in 1946, Donald returned to Blooming Prairie. He was united in marriage to Josephine Starman on Aug. 25, 1952 in Blooming Prairie. They had four children and farmed in Westfield Township, Dodge County.

Donald farmed until his retirement and enjoyed being outdoors. He also enjoyed bowling, fishing, stock car racing and old time dancing. He had a special interest in his yard, always keeping it perfectly mowed. Most importantly though was his family and he treasured the time he spent with them. Josephine died on July 19, 1996. Later, on June 26, 1999, Donald married Harriet Carlson in Owatonna and here they made their home.
Donald was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Servicemen’s Club of Blooming Prairie for over 60 years, the American Legion and VFW in Blooming Prairie and the Eagles Club in Owatonna.

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He is survived by his wife Harriet Carlson Trom of Owatonna; three sons, Roger Trom of Blooming Prairie, Daniel (and Beth) Trom of Blooming Prairie, Brian Trom of Owatonna; a daughter, Barbara (and Dale) Jacobson of Owatonna; a step-son, Keith (and LeeAnn) Carlson of Goodhue; a step-daughter, Tamara (and Aaron Eastvold) Carlson of Austin; 11 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his first wife Josephine; his parents; his brother Gordon; his sister JoAnn Juhnke; and his daughter in law Donna Springer-Trom.

Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 4 to 8 p.m. and one hour prior to the service in the church. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, Oct. 22 at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Greg Parrott officiating. Interment will be in the St. Columbanus Catholic Cemetery in Blooming Prairie. Military honors will be provided by Blooming Prairie American Legion Post 52 and VFW Post 878.

Memorials are preferred to Homestead Hospice or donor’s choice.