Donald Kaiser

Born in Chicago, IL he began his career at an early age with Santa Fe Railroad. He answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. During this chapter of life, he met the love of his life, Sara Carolyn. Following his military service Don returned with her to Chicago to marry and began building the family and life they would share for almost 64 years. He was a faithful and loving husband to his “Sweet Caroline”.

He resumed his career with Santa Fe and they relocated to the corporate headquarters in Topeka, KS. Don and Sara had three children that were raised by modeling hard work and integrity and he was incredibly proud of all three. As an involved father, he coached his namesake, Don Jr. in football and baseball and was affectionately known as Big Don to his young athletes. Later he enjoyed watching his 5 grandchildren play sports and as great granddaughters came along, he was thrilled to read books and play with them during their Florida visits.

Don had the gift of conversation. He loved to talk to people. No one was a stranger long after they met Don Kaiser. There was a story for everyone. But most important to him was serving his church. He held leadership roles with a genuine intent to serve his God. While his family grieves his passing, they take comfort in knowing that Don had been welcomed into the eternal presence of the Lord he served so faithfully.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Martha Beuschlein, brother-in-law Carl Beuschlein, brother-in-law Richard Haynes and his beloved grandson, Reed Winkley. He is survived by his loving wife, Sara Carolyn Kaiser, children; Bev Winkley, Becky Samson, her husband Noam Samson, Don Kaiser Jr. and his wife Elvira Kaiser, his loving sister Priscilla Haynes, his grandchildren; Cara Haas and husband Christopher, Trey Winkley and wife Sarah, Jack Dougherty, Cannon Kaiser and three great grandchildren; Sadie, Hadley and Milo Haas. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews that he loved so much. We will all honor and celebrate his life at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Pierce, FL 2011 S. 13th Street, Fort Pierce FL 34950 on Thursday, September 3rd at 2:00 p.m. Flowers and Arrangements should be sent directly to the Church and/or if preferred donations may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church in Don’s name.