Donald Bachmann 94, of Winner, SD passed away on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at the Avera Gregory Healthcare Center in Gregory, SD.  The family would like to invite you to join them for a time of food and fellowship on Friday, October 11, 2024 at 12:00PM at the First Baptist Church in Winner, SD.  A time of sharing and remembrance will begin at 1:00PM.

Born to Gottlieb and Marie Bachmann in Wood, SD, Don attended the Mellette County School through the eighth grade. He served his country in the Korean war as a large equipment operator from 1951-52, achieving the rank of Private First Class. During this time, he earned a Bronze Star, the Korean Service Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal.

After completing his military service, Don resumed working on the family farm until establishing his own farming and ranching operation north of Winner, SD in 1964. On Sept. 3, 1966, he married Ruth Ann Gustafson at the First Baptist Church in Witten, SD. Two children, Diane and David, were brought into the world through this union.

Don was an avid fisherman who enjoyed any opportunity to throw a hook in the water, whether it be at one of his favorite locations on the Missouri River, or any of several fishing holes dotting the surrounding countryside. Flying was another hobby he added to his interests, earning his private pilot's license and even owning two different small planes. He was always ready to help a neighbor or friend in need.

Few things brought Don greater joy than loving and spoiling his three grandchildren and four great granddaughters. He enjoyed playing with them, sharing laughs and cuddles, as well as taking them fishing when ever the opportunity allowed.

His memory is carried on by his wife (Ruth Ann), children (Diane, David), grandchildren Tanya Shoemaker (Daniel), Trevor Larson (Courtney), Trace Larson (Katie), great grandchildren (Paiden, Oakley, & Charlie Shoemaker, Loretta Larson), sisters (Betty Cotsamire, Louise Klein), as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Gottlieb and Marie Bachmann, brother Gerald, Herman Bachmann, and Chris Bachmann sisters Katherine Brown and Mildred Burnham, brothers-in-law Stanley Nelson, Loren Cotsamire, Caroll Brown and Jim Burnham.