"Charlene, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our hearts go out to you. All of the Frank and Virginia Becker children Nancy Lemker, Linda Armbrecht, Janet Dirks, Franklin Becker and Norman Becker"
In loving memory of
Donald Etherington
August 1, 1943 - February 22, 2019
Don Etherington passed away on February 22, 2019, surrounded by his family at the Kossuth Regional Health Center.
Donald Leroy Etherington was born August 1, 1943 in Winnebago, Minnesota. He was the only child of Willis and Pearle (Leigh) Etherington. In 1945, the family moved to a farm north of Algona, Iowa. Don was involved in FFA, 4-H and raised cows on the farm.
In 1962, Don graduated from Algona High School. He worked at Snap-On industries until enlisting in the US Army in 1965. He served in in the Vietnam War and was Honorably discharged in 1971.
On May 23, 1970, Don married Charlene Elizabeth Lappe at St. John's Catholic Church in Bancroft, Iowa and started their married life in Algona. After serving in the military he returned to Snap-On briefly before becoming employed at Hormel. While working at Hormel, Don was able to earn his Associate of Arts degree through Iowa Lakes Community College. His "Hormel buddies" nicknamed him "Jim Bob".
Don enjoyed life with his family and friends. He was an avid golfer at River Road and loved playing cards. He could also be found bowling on various leagues and enjoyed Line Dancing with his wife Charlene. Don was an avid supporter of his sons' sports and school activities. During his free time, he could also be found busy around the house as a handyman and woodworker.
After Don's retirement in 2001 from Hormel, he focused on his grandchildren. He could always be found at various sporting events, birthday parties, recitals and music programs.
Left to cherish his memories are his wife, Charlene of Algona; sons Ryan (Kimberly) Etherington of Algona and Christopher (Erin) Etherington of Ankeny. His grandchildren Dominick, Kameryn, Lillian, Eli and Emma.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Tributes
"to Donnie's family - Condolences on Donnie's passing. It has been years since I have seen Donnie, but remember with fond memories all our fun thru 4-H and the parties we would have. I remember going with Donnie to Fairmont to the races and oh how he loved the races. May he rest in peace!! Linda Fritz Bluhm ( From Tyke) "
"My condolences to the family on the passing of Donald. May your fond memories of him provide comfort for you at this difficult time. God promises to give us comfort when we pray for it. Now is the time to pray for comfort so that you will be able to cope with the loss of Donald. 2Corinthians 1:3,4"
"I had a good time working with Don. He never was without something to say or a topic to discuss. Living next door was always an adventure. I am sorry for your loss."
"Oh Donnie, the yrs. have come and gone. You've truly made the cycle, and your ready for your new journey to begin. We are here still grieving with our tears, and your standing there with that big smile on your face ready to march through those doors to start your new life. Our work is never done, enjoy what he has instore for you, It will be special because your unique. RIP Don You will be missed."
"Charlene, Ryan and Kim family, sorry to hear of Don?s passing. Grew up as neighbors to Don and parents. You are in our thoughts and prayers!"
"Charlene and boys, Sorry to hear of Dons passing.U all are in our thoughts and prayers and have our sympathy."
"your all in my prayers"
"Thoughts and Prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. He is now in God's hands. RIP Don"
"Charlene & family - so sorry to hear of EPs passing. May you be blessed with remembering all of the great memories. God?s blessings to each of you. Henry & Debbie"
"Kim and family so very sorry for your loss sending prayers of comfort for all the family. "
"Charlene and family, I am so sorry for your loss. God bless. Kathie Ricke "
"Charlene and family. sorry to hear of your loss. may Don rest in peace."