Don Meade

Don Meade, age 89 of St. Paul Park, died May 26, 2013 at the White Pines Senior Living in Cottage Grove. Don was born February 20, 1924 and spent his early years in Aitkin, Minnesota. Don was married to Gloria Ann Waldera on April 26, 1952 and moved to their home in St. Paul Park in 1961.

"Dad's chores on earth are done, God has called him home to Heaven. Dad may have been small in stature but he was huge to his family and friends. His patience, calmness, forgiveness, willingness to help others, and his never complaining attitude was an inspiration to everyone who knew him. By his actions we learned the importance of dedication to all our responsibilities in life and especially to family. He taught us the love of baseball and how to play the game, taking us to many Twins games when we were kids. Fortunately, we never learned to replicate his crazy batting stance! We take solace in knowing that he is now back together with Mom, being able to see and hold her again. He will be sorely missed by his sons, daughters-in-law, grandkids, great-grandkids, brother, many friends from Fritz Candy Company, St. Andrew's Church and the old neighborhood. Dad's smile, wit and sense of humor touched many and the family would like to especially thank all who supported us and helped us take care of him over the past three years. Dad, till we meet again, thanks for being such an awesome father."

Don was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Anna; his beloved wife of 57 years, Gloria; brother, Wayne; sister Loraine; grandson Jacob and niece Wanda. He is survived by sons, Mike (Deb), Dale (Susan) and Gary (Deb); grandkids Shawn, Jenny, Jeff, Kate, Zak, AJ, Ryan and Mike; great-grandkids Davyn, Shameus and Berkely; brother Roy and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, 6-8 pm at Kok Funeral Home, 1201 Portland Avenue, St. Paul Park. Funeral service will be 11 am, Friday, May 31st at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, 1000 Portland Ave., St. Paul Park with visitation for one hour prior. Interment will be at Newport Cemetery, Newport. Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.