Donald DeWalt

Maj. Donald H DeWalt USMC (Ret)

September 2, 1935 - May 1, 2025

Donald Harrison DeWalt, age 89, passed away at Methodist Hospital on Thursday, May 1, 2025, in Rochester, Minnesota.

Don will be remembered for his love of his family, singing, acquiring knowledge, teaching, and reading.

Born September 2, 1935, in Bainbridge, New York, Don was the loved son of the late Reverend Harrison and Alice (Atwood) DeWalt. He was the oldest of three children, a step-brother, and 4 half siblings.

He acquired a Bachelor's of Science from Pennsylvania State University. After graduating, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp became an officer, received a second Bachelors in Electrical Engineering from Naval Post Graduate School, and then met his beloved wife of 62 1/2 years. During his service he acquired a Master's degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Drexel University. After 20 years of service with a stint of war, he retired to Rochester, Minnesota. He worked for International Business Machines (IBM) as an engineer. After 15 years he retired and then began working knight security for the Guest House and took classes at Rochester Community College. He then worked as a tutor for other college students.

Don was an active member of Pax Christi, singing in multiple choirs.

He was survived by his wife Irene, children Joseph, Marie, Teresa, and Donald, 6 grandchildren, Bethany, Richard, Donald Jr, Christopher, Zachery, and Nicole, 5 siblings Rose May, Judy, John, Thomas, and Dave.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11Am on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Pax Christi Catholic Church, 4135 18th Ave NW, Rochester, MN 55901. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston, MN.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the DeWalt family.