Donald Taylor

Donald “Don” James Taylor passed away peacefully on his 79th birthday, Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at UW Hospital in Madison, WI.

Born on August 26, 1946, to William and Esther (Luther) Taylor, Don grew up in Madison, WI and graduated from Marshall High School in 1964, where he wrestled and played football. He went on to attend Madison Area Technical College, but his true education came from the adventures he had along the way.

On August 14, 1971, Don married the love of his life, Kay Becker, at Bethel Lutheran Church in Madison. The two were inseparable for 54 years, celebrating their anniversary just weeks before his passing. Together they raised two children, Kim Molnar and Brian Taylor, and built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure.

Don spent more than 31 years at Oscar Mayer, retiring in 2002 at the young age of 55—so he could spend more time doing the things he really loved. He was happiest outside, whether he was gardening, golfing, birding, fishing, or behind the wheel of his bright red 1970 LT-1 Corvette. You may have seen a flash of red on the backroads of southern Wisconsin and chances are, it was Don.

Don and Kay were true “road warriors.” Over five decades, they crisscrossed the country, visiting nearly every state and more campgrounds and national parks than anyone could count. Alaska, the Southwest, the Gulf Shores, the Northeast—they saw it all, but Door County in the fall was always their favorite. Later in life, they packed their passports too, traveling to Ireland, Italy, Germany, Austria, Hungary, and even India. When Don talked about his travels—India most of all—his eyes lit up and that big, boyish grin of his made you feel like you were right there beside him and Kay.

Above all, Don will be remembered for his endless kindness (with the notable exception of the squirrels in his backyard), his generosity, loyalty, and tireless work ethic. He had a huge heart and a knack for making people laugh—often without even trying. His mix of warmth, humor, and down-to-earth charm made him the kind of person everyone felt lucky to know.

Don is survived by his wife, Kay; his children, Kimberly Taylor-Molnar and Brian Taylor (Laurie Hoody); and his siblings, John Taylor (Linda), Connie Hoisington (Bob), Bonnie Taylor-Charis, and William Taylor (Paula) as well as many other relatives and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents William and Esther; son-in-law Matthew Molnar; and granddaughter Faithann.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Ryan Funeral Home, 2418 N Sherman Ave, Madison, WI 53704. Family and friends may gather from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. The burial will be 12:00 pm Monday, September 22, 2025, at Highland Memory Gardens in Cottage Grove.

Drinks and appetizers will be served following the service from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at The Great Dane, 876 Jupiter Dr, Madison, WI.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.

To view Don’s obituary or share a favorite memory (or Corvette story), please visit www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2418 N Sherman Ave

608-249-8257