Donald Aerts

Donald Alfred Aerts, age 89, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, July 16, 2026. He was born on February 20, 1937, in Wrightstown, Wi to the late Elzear and Nettie (Hendricks) Aerts. He married Rosalee Mary Coenen on April 14, 1959, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Wrightstown. She preceded him in death on May 7, 2019. His son, Daniel “Boone” Gerard Aerts, also preceded him in death on May 31, 2023.Don was deeply proud of his service to his country. He honorably served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Shangri-La (CV-38), a chapter of his life that remained a source of great pride throughout the years.

Don dedicated 38 years of his career to Miller Electric. Even after his retirement, his commitment and expertise were so valued that he continued working as a contractor for an additional four years. A testament to both his work ethic and the respect he earned from those around him.

At home, Don found joy in caring for his yard, tending his garden, and nurturing his flowers. He took immense pride in creating a beautiful yard and garden. Anyone who knew him could see the care and dedication he poured into every season.

A passionate sports fan, Don's greatest joy came from supporting his children. He treasured every opportunity to coach his sons' baseball teams and was a constant presence at all of his children's sporting events. Whether coaching from the dugout or the stands, he never missed a chance to help enhance his children’s abilities. Those moments became some of his fondest memories.

Don and his beloved wife, Rose, shared a love for cards and treasured the time spent around the table with family and dear friends. Whether it was cribbage, sheepshead, or any other card game, they never passed up an opportunity to enjoy good company, delicious snacks, and plenty of laughter.

Those left to continue his legacy: son, Paul (Nita) Aerts and their children Tim, Emily and Scarlet; Daniel’s widow Dawn Aerts and their children Mariah, Ben, Becca, Tamara; daughter, Kathy (Steve) Koltz; son, David (Tracy) Aerts and their children Samuel and Jacob; and daughter, Sara Aerts. Two brothers Roger Aerts, and Tom (Ann) Aerts; three sisters, Yvonne Cumbers, Judy (Lenny) Vickman, and Janice Daniels; one sister-in-law Ruth Aerts.

Along with his parents, wife and son, Don was proceeded in death by his in laws, Robert and Martha Coenen, stepmother in law, Geri Coenen, and grandson Adam Ribarchek. Brothers Dick Aerts and Russell Aerts; brothers and sisters-in-law, Joan Aerts, Ken Cumbers, Mary Aerts, and Clarence Daniels

Family and friends may visit at St. Clare Parish-St. Paul Site, Wrightstown, on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 5-7pm with a parish prayer service to conclude the visitation at 7pm. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at the church, from 9:00am until 10:45am. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00am with Fr. Santy Turiano officiating. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery-Wrightstown. Cotter Funeral and Cremation Care is assisting the family.

Don's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the family members, friends, and community who surrounded him with love and kindness following the passing of his beloved wife of sixty years, Rose. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to visit, shared a meal, brought homemade cookies, played cards, reminisced, laughed, and simply spent time with him. Your friendship, compassion, and generosity brought Don comfort, purpose, and joy. Those moments of connection became the brightest highlights of his final years, and your kindness will never be forgotten.

And, in Don Aerts fashion, we know his final words would be, “And you can kiss my Holland ass on Main Street.”