Donald Plante

Donald Michael Plante, age 78, passed away on October 31, 2025, at Cottagewood Senior Community in Rochester, Minnesota, surrounded by the love of his family.

Don was born in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, to Leon and Marion Plante, who later owned and operated Hayward Liquor on Main Street in Hayward. He graduated from Hayward High School in 1964, as did his wife, Linda, whom he married in 1968. They recently celebrated 56 years of marriage.

Don earned his degree in History and Physical Education from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. His first position after college was with the U.S. Department of the Treasury as a Special Agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, years he loved to reminisce about throughout his life.

When his mother, Marion, became ill, Don and Linda returned to Hayward to run the family business, Hayward Liquor. After the store was sold, Don transitioned into a long career in human resources, serving as HR Director for Louisiana Pacific, Honeywell in Minneapolis, and finally Blount in Owatonna, Minnesota.

A proud son of northern Wisconsin, Don loved the Hayward area deeply. He was an avid hunter and and he gave back to the community through his service as a City Councilman, volunteer firefighter, and Town of Stinnett Board member.

Don is survived by his wife, Linda, and their three children: Sarah (Alan) Perry of Barrington, Nova Scotia; Daniel (Bridget) Plante of Woodbury, Minnesota; and Michael Plante of Rochester, Minnesota; as well as twelve beloved grandchildren.

A funeral Mass will be held in July 2026 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Hayward, with burial to follow at Greenwood Cemetery.

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