Donald P. Eilbes

May 29, 1936 – Jan. 20, 2011

Donald P. Eilbes, of the Hartland area, took the checkered flag Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011, after his final lap with pancreatic cancer at the age of 74.

Eilbes Construction was the name of his game for most of his working life. His artistic gifts with stone can be seen in and on numerous buildings in Wisconsin, Illinois and Arizona. Don’s life would not have been complete without all forms of racing, participating as a driver in younger years and being a huge fan in later years. He thoroughly enjoyed the family swimming pool, whether it be doing jackknives or floating with his duck ring. In the last few years, he enjoyed scooter riding, often putting on hundreds of miles in a single day. Equally important in Don’s life were the number 3 and being an A neg.

His pit crew consisted of his wife of 54 years, Mary "Mariette"; his children, Ryan, Renee (Joe) Evert-Booth and Scott and Suzette (Daniel) Klinger. To Nicole, Jamie, Chad, Ryan II and Brad: He will always be our GP. His fan club also includes other relatives and many, many dear friends.

Join us in a celebration of Don’s life from 2 p.m. until a time of joyful remembrance at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 30, at Evert-Luko Funeral Home, 170 Warren Ave., Hartland.

Evert-Luko Funeral Home is serving the family. For more information, call 367-2156 or visit online at www.evert-lukofuneralhome.com.

"Don is now forever sidipipious."