Donald Fawcett

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Donald Joseph Fawcett, age 81, of Madison, WI.  Don went to his heavenly home on Monday, August 10th at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital with his loving wife by his side. He was born on January 4th, 1945 in Hillsboro, WI to Kenneth Macy and Dolores Elaine (Miller) Fawcett. He graduated from Hillsboro High school in 1963. He worked as a machinist at Gisholt, Ohio Medical, and Oscar Mayer Kraft Foods. He retired in 2006 after a very successful career at Kraft. 

Don married the love of his life, Ramona Brockman, on June 18th, 1966. They were happily married for 60 years all in Madison, WI. He always loved to tell the story of how they met, but always humorously changed some details to make it sound like Mona was “hounding” after him. Don was the proud and loving father to his two daughters, Macy and Dawn. He prided himself in being a “girl dad” and always encouraged them to be educated, independent women who could support themselves with or without a life partner. Through example, he also showed them what a quality husband, father, and grandfather looked like. 

His grandchildren, Alyssa, Mitchell, Malachi, and Ella, will always remember Grandpa Don as the “goofy grandpa.” He was always taking them on Suzuki adventures, watching silly cartoons like Spongebob, napping to Little Bear, giving the best hugs, making pancakes with spray can batter, and spoiling (well-loving) them whenever he could. He always took time to ask them about their lives and offer advice whenever he could. There are countless, special memories Don shared with them all. He was truly a one of a kind grandfather who took an active role to help raise his grandkids.  Additionally, Don was an adoring great-grandfather to Tucker, Clive, and Crew. 

Don loved his family fiercely and we know he is watching over us from Heaven with all of our former pets by his side. He led a life full of love and kindness for his family, friends, and even strangers. Don’s interests included camping all over the country, Jeeping in AZ, spending time at the Pine Cove Resort, New Lisbon WI with his wife and family, hunting and fishing, spending time with his brother, Kevin, and his life-long friend, Steve, and many other outdoor activities. He always had a fun story to tell and the warmest smile to greet others. His laugh was infectious and his dad jokes were endless.

Don is survived by his wife, Ramona (Brockman) Fawcett; his 2 daughters, Macy (Mike) Buhler and Dawn (Brian) Aldridge; his 4 grandchildren, Alyssa (Clay) Sibley, Mitchell Buhler, Malachi Buhler (Carleigh), Ella (Jace) Aldridge; his 3 great-grandchildren, Tucker, Clive, and Crew; his siblings, Carol (Larry) Engelbrecht Wagner and Kevin (Laurie) Fawcett; Sibling-in-laws, Rhonda (Jim) Ostheimer, Rose (Mark) Stanek, Roger (Jill) Brockman; Aunt-in-law, Jaquelyn Preuss; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Dolores Fawcett; his parents-in-laws, Gordon and Joyce Brockman; his brother, Kenneth Jr (Pete) Fawcett, and many aunts and uncles.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Eastside Lutheran Church, 2310 Independence Lane, Madison, WI. A visitation will be held from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m., Friday, at Ryan Funeral Home, 2418 N Sherman Ave, Madison, WI, as well as one hour prior to the service, from 9:00 - 10:00 a.m., on Saturday at the church.

We want to thank all the medical care providers who took care of Don over the years. We especially extend our gratitude to the SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital staff who supported Don and our family during this difficult time. Don never let his health struggles waiver his faith nor his trust in medicine/science. In lieu of flowers or gifts, we ask you to please donate to a charity of your choice in Don’s memory. 

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Service
2418 N Sherman Ave
608-249-8257