Donald Staples

Donald George Staples, son of Walter and Nettie (Kobbervig) Staples, was born June 26, 1925 in Synnes Township in Stevens County, Minnesota. Don grew up in the Alberta area and graduated from Alberta High School in 1942. Following his schooling, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. He received an honorable discharge in 1944. Following his discharge, he returned home and began farming on the family farm. On May 28, 1949, he was united in marriage to Marilyn Wagner. The couple continued to farm until 1959, when Don began working for the State of Minnesota as an inspector. Don and Marilyn moved to Starbuck in 1961, where they have continued to live since that time. While living in Starbuck, you could find Don doing his handyman work around town.

Don was a member of Fron Lutheran Church in Starbuck, where he served as an usher and deacon for many years. He served on the Starbuck School Board for six years and was involved with the Sportsmen’s Club, Lion’s Club, Depot Society, United Fund Drive and the Morris Rifle Club and he taught Firearms Safety. Don was a Scoutmaster and an Explorer Advisor, receiving the Silver Beaver Award. Don enjoyed hunting, reading, golfing, watching high school sports, puzzles and traveling. He had a wonderful sense of humor and liked working with children and spending time with his grandkids.

Don died on Monday, July 6, 2009 at the Glacial Ridge Hospital in Glenwood, Minnesota, having lived to reach the age of 84 years.

He is survived by his wife: Marilyn Staples of Starbuck; two sons: Doug (Lynn) Staples of Starbuck and Tim (RaeAnn) Staples of Starbuck; one daughter: Candy Staples of Maplewood; five grandchildren: Tyler, Evan and Taya Staples, Breanna Sherlin and Katie Heidelberger; three great-grandchildren: Lucy, Ellie and Maria; one brother: Les (Rosela) Staples of Morris; one sister: Dorothy Kennedy of Staples and a variety of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers for the service are: Tyler Staples, Evan Staples, Taya Staples, Breanna Sherlin and Katie Heidelberger. Monica Gosseling will serve as organist for the service with Sarah’s Harmony providing special music. Starbuck Funeral Home in Starbuck.