Donald "Don" Gaydos

Donald “Don” Gaydos 
November 17, 1930 – June 21, 2026 

 Donald “Don” Gaydos, age 95, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, at Eden Vista in Madison, Wisconsin. Don was born on November 17, 1930, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to Stephen and Verna Gaydos. The oldest of three children, he was preceded in death by his brother, Steve (Anne) Gaydos, and his sister, Kathleen (Robert) Benish. 

He proudly served in the United States Naval Reserves beginning in 1950 and was honorably discharged in 1958. He went on to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he earned his MBA in 1960. 

 Don began his professional career with Boeing’s Aerospace Division in Seattle, Washington. He later returned to Wisconsin, where he dedicated nearly 28 years of service to the City of Milwaukee. During his tenure, he served as a Budget Management Analyst and was later promoted to Records and Forms Analyst. Don retired in 1992, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and professionalism in public service. 

 On December 28, 1968, Don married the love of his life, Mary (Gottsacker), in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and shared experiences. He devoted his hard-earned vacation time to creating lasting memories with his family, sharing his love for travel and the outdoors through decades of camping trips and explorations of America's National Parks. Don was a devoted father to his two sons, David (Susan) Gaydos and Andrew (Laura Rose) Gaydos, and later a proud and loving grandfather to his three granddaughters: Lindsey, Ashley, and Serena. 

 Following his retirement, Don and Mary moved to Rothschild, Wisconsin. There, he happily spent his time hiking, fishing, and touring the United States and Canada with his wife in a camper trailer. These years of open roads and beautiful destinations brought him great contentment and a welcome chance to relax in the beauty of nature. 

 A lifelong Catholic, Don’s faith was central to his life. He was actively involved in his church communities, including Mother of Good Counsel Parish in Milwaukee, St. Mark’s Parish in Rothschild, and St. Peter’s Parish in Madison. 

 A Funeral Mass will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 5001 N. Sherman Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin. Visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. until the time of Mass, with a luncheon to follow at the church. A private family burial will take place at Resurrection Cemetery in Madison. 

Don will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his thoughtful nature, and the steady, caring presence he brought to those around him. His long life was filled with meaningful accomplishments, deep faith, and enduring love for his family. Don will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. 

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity of Dane County, 6201 Odana Road, Madison, WI 53719. Donate Now - Habitat for Humanity of Dane County orThe River Food Pantry, 3301 Packers Ave., Madison, WI 53704. Support The River

 The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to members of St. Peter’s Parish, as well as his hospice nurses and the caregivers at Eden Vista, for their compassionate care and support.