Donald E. Brose

Don Brose, 97, formerly of Hopedale, passed away Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at Memorial Hospital in Springfield.

He was born July 30, 1929 in Kewanee to Fred and Lenora Krause Brose.  He married Myrna Zorn on October 8, 2001 in Groveland, and she survives.

Also surviving are his stepchildren, Dana Gordon, Lori Walsh (deceased), and Rhonda (Pam) Bodtke; step grandchildren, Brett Gordon, Kendra Neuhaus, and Shawna Walsh; several great and great great grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Joann Brose and her family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, Leroy, Ken, and an infant sister.

He served in the United States Army during the Korean War.

He was employed as an auto mechanic for many years and was an award winning autobody painter and repairman.

He was a member of American Legion Post 382 in Delavan.

Don loved watching Westerns and all kinds of sports, mainly college football. He enjoyed woodworking, making clocks, and doing home improvement projects. He was a great cook and enjoyed making dinners for family, loved animals, and had many pets throughout his lifetime.  Donald was a people person.  He didn’t know a stranger and would always reach out to help anyone in need. He was a kind, caring, giving selfless man with a big heart and beautiful soul. May he live in eternal peace in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  

Cremation has been accorded.  A graveside service will be at 2:30 pm Friday, October 23, 2026 at Pleasant View Cemetery in Kewanee. Davis-Oswald Funeral Home in Delavan is handling the arrangements.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital.

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