Donald W. Bloecher, 83, of Newburg, was called home to be with the Lord on Monday, Jan. 21, 2013, at his family homestead with his loving wife by his side.

Don was born on Dec. 1, 1929, on the family homestead to the late Walter and Margaret (nee Plapper) Bloecher. On Sept. 22, 1951, Don was united in marriage to Mildred Ratliff at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Newburg. Don spent his entire life on the family homestead. He was a thirdgeneration dairy farmer and was also employed as an inspector for Mercury Marine in Fond du Lac for 38 years. Eventually Don sold his cows and continued to operate the farm by raising cash crops.

Don was a talented musician. In his early years he taught a variety of different musical instruments at the West Bend Music Center. He also played the accordion in a band he formed called the Donald Bloecher Band. Don was a multi-talented craftsman who loved farming his land and enjoyed being on his tractor.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Millie, of 61 years; three children, Don (Laurie) Bloecher Jr. of Newburg, Michael C. Bloecher of Kewaskum, and Donnette S. (Larry) Butler of Jackson; 10 grandchildren, Amy (Tim), Troy, Brandon, Danielle, Ben, Shaundra, Linnea, Scott, Nic, and Cassandra; four great-grandchildren, Arianna Mae, Dani Lynn, Cienna Rae, and Brayden Richard; and other dear relatives and close friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and his son Randall Scott.

A funeral service in remembrance of Don will be held on Friday, Jan. 25, at 5 p.m., at the Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home (1315 W. Washington St., West Bend). The Rev. Jon Baumann will officiate. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Friday from 3 p.m. until the time of service. Burial will be in St. John Church Cemetery in Newburg.

Memorials to St. John’s Lutheran Church of Newburg are appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be expressed at www. myrhum-patten.com.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Newburg Fire and Rescue Team and Deputy P.J. for their dedication and compassion.