Donald "Don" Ernest Stielow

Donald "Don" Ernest Stielow passed peacefully on September 29, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, dedication to family, entrepreneurial success, and public service. Born on December 15, 1938, in Waldo, Kansas, Don's life journey carried him from the farming communities of the Kansas plains to a deeply fulfilling life as a business owner, civic leader, and respected member of the Kansas City Northland.

Roots in the Heartland:

Don was born to John Friedrich Stielow and Edna Gwynne Stagner. Raised in Waldo County, Kansas, alongside his siblings Joyce, Sylvia, and Keith, he learned the values of integrity, perseverance, and community service from an early age. His family's connection to Waldo Methodist Church provided a strong foundation that guided him throughout his life.

Don began his professional career as a State of Kansas scale inspector based in Russell, Kansas where he developed the strong work ethic and commitment to public service that would define his life's work.

Building a Life in Kansas City:

Don's career took a significant turn when he accepted a position as a grain scale inspector in Kansas City, Kansas. The opportunity prompted him to leave Russell and relocate to the Kansas City metropolitan area, a move that would shape the remainder of his life. He eventually settled in North Kansas City, Missouri, where he built his home, raised his family, and became deeply involved in the community he loved.

An Entrepreneurial Legacy:

Don possessed a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit and an exceptional understanding of local business. Through Stielow Enterprises, he established and operated several successful ventures that became familiar and trusted fixtures throughout the community.

His most enduring business was North Kansas City Hauling, which he operated for 33 years, providing essential municipal hauling services built on reliability, hard work, and customer trust. His business interests also included the You Wash It laundromat, which served local residents for many years, as well as several car washes, gas stations, liquor stores, a deli, and a Dairy Queen that was the number-one-selling Dairy Queen in the world in 1974.

Whether serving customers, managing employees, or investing in the community, Don took great pride in building independent businesses from the ground up. His strong work ethic and dedication earned the respect of both his customers and fellow business owners.

A Legacy of Leadership and Public Service:

Don's commitment to North Kansas City eventually led him from business ownership into public office. In April 2013, he was elected mayor of North Kansas City on a platform focused on protecting local infrastructure and preserving the future of North Kansas City Hospital.

Don went on to serve two terms as mayor, leading the city from 2013 through 2021. During his tenure, he was recognized as a practical and forward-thinking leader who helped guide North Kansas City through significant growth and innovation. His administration supported major technological advancements.

Perhaps most notably, Don helped lead the city through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with steady leadership, always prioritizing the health, safety, and well-being of the community he served.

Devotion to Family:

Above all else, Don's greatest pride was his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy Ann Stielow, with whom he shared over 50 years of marriage, love, partnership, and devotion.

Though he achieved success as a businessman and public servant, those closest to him knew that his most treasured moments were spent with family and friends. He carried the humility, kindness, and values of his small-town Kansas upbringing throughout his life.

Don's memory lives on through his loving children, Shelly Pinto and Mark A. Stielow; their spouses, Neil Pinto and Laura Stielow; and the many family members, friends, colleagues, and residents whose lives he touched over the years.

Whether he was leading a city council meeting, operating one of his local businesses, or enjoying time with loved ones, Don was happiest when surrounded by family and community. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy endures through the family he cherished, the city he helped shape, and the countless lives he influenced through his leadership, generosity, and example.

Donald "Don" Ernest Stielow's life was defined by service, determination, and an unwavering commitment to the people around him. His impact will be remembered for generations to come.