Donald Bernard Slusarek, of Suamico, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, July 19, 2024, after an active day with family. He was born to Bernard and Mary (Swiergel) Slusarek on June 10, 1935, in Green Bay, WI.

Growing up on a farm, Donald developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for his faith. He graduated from Pulaski High School and met his future wife, Carleen Casper, at St. Benedict Catholic Church while serving as an altar boy. They were married on June 16, 1956.

Shortly afterwards, Donald was drafted into the Army and bravely served in South Korea during the Korean War on the Supports Team. When Donald returned, he worked for Schrieber Cheese and Renard's Machine. He then started his first business, Suamico Sheet Metal, where he subcontracted metal fabrication for various businesses. During this time, he developed an interest in home building and started Slusarek Construction in 1964. He proudly built high quality homes for over 30 years in the surrounding area. All family members helped lend a hand. His son, Gregg, took over the business in 1996. Donald continued to be involved and work until he physically could not. He was highly respected and regarded, often referred to as "Big Don." His dry sense of humor and one-liners will always be remembered.

Donald loved driving his bulldozer and tractor. His other passions included growing and harvesting his own food and fishing. He took joy in sharing his spoils and loved hosting trout and crab boils and booyah for family and friends. Donald also enjoyed camping with family, with many trips to Northern Wisconsin and the Western United States. He later included his grandchildren in camping trips to Escanaba, Michigan. Because his summers got busy with the construction business, Donald liked to spend the winter months in Florida with family. He also spent his free time with loved ones at the "Shack" and found it peaceful during his later years.

Donald and Carleen raised a big and loving family. Donald is survived by his wife, Carleen and their children; Michelle (Thomas) Huempfner, Gregg (Kirstin) Slusarek, Saundra (Robert) Laskowski, Suzette (Dean Kroll) Hackl-Kroll; his foster children, Nancy (Butch) Bain, Laurie (Daniel) Overesch and Michael (Julie) Rabideau. Donald is further survived by his grandchildren Sarah, Rachael, Nathan, Maria, Alicia, Olivia, Julia, Taylor, Tanner, Carlee, Cameron, Nate, Noah, Jeremy, James, Michaela, Morgan and four great-grandchildren, with three more on the way. He is also survived by his siblings; Monica Kontny, Bernardine (Russ) Walske, Thomas (Monica) Slusarek, and in-laws; Melodee Peot and Danail (Monica) Casper.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws, Jessie and Danail Casper; and brothers-in-law(s) Robert Peot and Hank Kontny.

Visitation will be at SS Edward and Isidore Catholic Church, 3667 Flintville Rd., from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, July 26. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Friday at the church. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com.

Special thanks to the staff at St. Vincent ICU and the 8th floor, PRN Health Services and Milo C. Huempfner Green Bay VA Health Center.