Donald Lee Wilson, “Smasher,” passed away July 23, 2017 on Maple Hill, Grand Marais, at the age of 71 after a hard-fought battle with cancer.
He was born Dec. 30, 1945 in Adams Friendship, Wis. He and his family moved to Maple Hill when he was 9 years old, where he grew up hunting, fishing and working in the woods. He was mostly self-employed his whole life.
He was drafted into the Army on Oct. 25, 1965, and served two years on active duty with HHC 2nd Bn., 41st Inf, 2nd Armored Division, Fort Hood, Texas. He was honorably discharged on Oct. 24, 1967. His patriotism carried him on to become commander of American Legion Post 413, Grand Marais for over 32 years. He kept it going through hard times and did so much for his community and us all.
He is survived by his mother, Betty Wilson of Grand Marais; brothers and sisters Mary Lou (Catron) of Anchorage, Alaska, Terry (Donna) and Ronald of Grand Marais, Gary (June) of Camano Island, Wash., Debra of Anchorage, Alaska, Hope (Cooper) of Novato, Calif., Perry of Grand Marais, Barbara (Radeke) of Rio Rancho, N.M., and Leona Tucker of Tallahassee, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by brothers Leon, Larry and Sam.
Affectionately known to us as “Smasher” by his natural ability to get the most fun out of life, he will be sadly missed but happily remembered by us all. He loved road trips. Happy trails my brother!
There will be a ceremony at Maple Hill Cemetery at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 9 followed by a gathering at the Legion.
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