Gordon William Donais

Gordon William Donais, 85, of Otsego, passed away on Thursday, October 3, 2024.  He was born September 28, 1939 in Elk River, son of Henry and Eleanora (Otto) Donais.

Gordon graduated from Elk River High School in 1957 and immediately joined the US Marine Corps where he served four years. Upon being honorably discharged from the Marines, he went to work for Hoffman Engineering, where he remained a dedicated employee for 40 years.

On June 2, 1962, Gordon married the love of his life, Darlene Lambrecht. They celebrated 62 years of marriage this past June and raised four children. Gordon was a dedicated family man who worked tirelessly to provide for his family. Gordon loved the game of baseball playing town baseball until 1970. Gordon and his wife, Darlene, had a special bond over their love for polka dancing. They were known for being the last ones on the dance floor, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and the simple pleasures of family gatherings, spirited dance nights, and playing multiple card games.

Preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Eleanora; brothers, Richard, Maynard and Leroy; son-in-law, David Holcombe.

Survived by his wife, Darlene; daughters, LuAnn Holcombe, Nancy Higgins, Kim (Todd) Brotkowski; son, Keith; sisters, Betty (Ralph) Coop and Diann (Ray) Paulson; brother, Bill (Patti); sister-in-laws, Elaine and Jan. 9 grandchildren, JeAnna (Peter) Miner, Sarah (Jeff) Monnat, Nolan (Danielle) Holcombe, Deven (Amy) Donais, Logan Donais, Kyle (Madie) Brotkowski, Jamie Brotkowski, Kayla Donais and Lindsey Brotkowski; 5 great-grandchildren, Idalene, Nelson and Arne Miner, Dawson Donais and Lainey Brotkowski and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at 11:00 AM. Visitation 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM prior to Mass at: Church of Saint Albert Catholic Church, 11400 57th Street NE, Albertville, MN 55301. Interment with Military Rites at St. Albert’s Cemetery immediately following service, luncheon to follow.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Dare’s Funeral Home of Elk River, MN. 763-441-1212. www.daresfuneralhome.com.

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