Donald Albert Majerus, devoted husband, loving father, and loyal friend left his earthly existence for his new home in heaven surrounded by the love of his family.

Don, 82, of Austin, died Monday, May 2, at St. Marks Nursing Home.

Don was born June 27, 1928, in Stewartville to John and Mary (Strejn) Majerus. He grew up in Stewartville, but moved to Austin his senior year in high school. He was a proud member of the Austin High School class of 1946. On Sept. 5, 1953, Don married Eileen Frandle and was drafted into the Army a year later. He served his country for two years, then settled down with his wife in Austin.

In the early 1960s Don started his own business, Don’s Shell Service. Today we’d call it a gas station, but back then it was truly a “service” station. Don pumped gas, changed oil and repaired cars. In 1965, Joe Wagner hired Don to join him at Joseph Construction, where, over the years, Don was draftsman/building designer, construction project manager and vice president. He retired in 1993.

Don loved Austin and gave back to the community in various ways, including serving on the Austin City Planning commission for several years. He was an active member of Queen of Angels parish, where he was lector, parish council member and trustee. As a longstanding member of the Sertoma Club, Don was known for everything from his leadership of the annual flight breakfast to his starring role as Santa at the annual Christmas party for special needs children. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion and Moose.

For the past five years, Don resided at St. Marks nursing home, where he was known for his sense of humor and his philosophical quotations. He enjoyed witty banter, crossword puzzles, singing, music and reading. Prior to moving to St. Marks, Don especially enjoyed traveling with his wife, Eileen, whether it was a short drive in the country or a trip to another state or overseas to visit their children.

Survivors include his children, John Majerus of Rochester, Margaret (Todd) Nelson of Kasson, Bill Majerus of Lyle, Teresa (Gene) Lim of Chicago, Joe (Janis) of Shakopee, Elizabeth (Richard) Miller of Dallas, Texas and Mike (Michelle) Rogers, Minn.; fourteen grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Don believed you should do your best, work hard, keep your promises, and most of all, keep a sense of humor through all of life’s challenges.

In recent weeks, Don’s physical condition prevented him from leaving his bed at St. Marks, but it didn’t prevent him from continuing to dispense his humor and wisdom, and share his faith. His window overlooking the courtyard garden was his inspiration, and as this year’s snow melted away, Don spoke of the awe he felt at the promise of spring.

Now Don walks where spring is eternal, and you can be certain he’s got his dancing shoes on.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. on Friday, May 6, at Queen of Angels Catholic Church with Father Dale Tupper and Father Paul Nelson officiating. There will be a 6:30 p.m. wake service on Thursday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. and one hour before the service at the church on Friday. Military rites will be by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216. Memorials are preferred to Pacelli High School, Queen of Angels Catholic Church, or St. Marks Lutheran Home.