Obituary of Donald J. Furrer

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather Donald Joseph Furrer passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on September 5, 2022 at the age of 93. Born November 7th, 1928 in Waukesha to parents Walter and Mabel Furrer, the eldest of five. Don’s early years were spent working in the family business, Star Dry Cleaners. During high school he was a boxer, the undefeated Light Welterweight Golden Gloves Regional Champion. He served in the US Army as a Tech Sergeant from 1951 to 1953, with the 2nd Armor Division stationed near Stuttgard, Germany as a small arms repairman. A lifelong Waukesha resident, Don will be remembered fondly as a well-respected business owner. His Waukesha tavern, K & D Tap, sponsored many sports teams, pool leagues, hosted large family-friendly picnics, and was where the famous Tom & Jerry’s (with the secret ingredient!) were enjoyed during the holidays. K & D Tap was known by many as a place to relax and enjoy conversation with friends, old and new. Don shared his love of hunting and fishing with family and friends. Always ready with a story, he loved to laugh and share the details of his adventures. His children and grandchildren will remember and cherish forever their time “up-north” with Don and have so many fun memories of their times together.  

Don is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Virginia Furrer, his children, Paul (ex-wife Linda Martin (divorced)), Christopher (Colleen), Donna Wilson, Walter (Marie), Barbara (Kevin) Esser, and Richard (Beth). As well as grandchildren, Marceline, Laura, Veronica, Courtney, Kristen (Ryan), Angela (Charlie), Samantha (Tanner), Christopher, Jessica (Linda), Briana, Emily, Megan, Bjorn and Henry. Great grandchildren, Caleb, Rachel, Alex, Abigail, Lucas and Zachary. Survived by his sister Sue, many cousins, nephews, nieces, other family and many friends. Preceded in death by his parents and siblings, June, Margie and Jan.

Don was a founding member of St. William Catholic Church 440 N Moreland Blvd Waukesha, WI 53188 which is where services will be held on Monday, September 12th. Visitation will be held 11:00 a.m. until the mass of Christian Burial at 12:30 pm. Cesarz, Charapata & Zinnecker is serving the Family. In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice are preferred. Cesarz Charapata & Zinnecker Funeral Home are serving the family.