It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Don Larry Bohnsack, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Born on June 25, 1938, in Marshalltown, Iowa, Don's journey came to a peaceful end on October 4, 2026, due to complications following heart surgery. His life was a testament to the power of love, dedication, and resilience.
Don was the cherished son of Glen and Ila Bohnsack, who predeceased him along with his in-laws, Doris and Nils Anderson, his sister JoAnn VanDorn, and brothers-in-law Jerry VanDorn and Gene Horan. He grew up with a strong sense of family, which he carried throughout his life.
On June 26, 1959, Don married the love of his life, Sheila, at the First Presbyterian Church in Waterloo, Iowa. Together, they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, discipline, laughter, and shared passions. Their partnership was a beacon of strength and support, raising three sons—Craig (Angela) of St. Joseph, Missouri; Daniel of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and Michael of Waterloo, Iowa.
Don graduated from West Waterloo High School in 1956. He embarked on a career that would see him excel in leadership roles. He supported his family while working at Rath Packing Company as an Assistant Plant Manager until 1985. Don's career took them to several locations throughout the Midwest. Aurora CO., Clinton OK., Altus OK., and retired in 2001 as the VP of Operations at Bar-S-Foods in Lawton, Oklahoma. Since retirement, Sheila and Don have resided in Kansas City MO.
Don lived for competition and was passionate about golf, ping-pong, bowling, and softball. However, his greatest joy came from watching his sons and grandsons wrestle during their high school and college years. He was a leader of men, both in the workplace and at home, where he was his sons' hero and his wife's steadfast partner.
He is survived by his devoted wife Sheila, his children, and his grandchildren—Derek, Cameron, Delaney, Rachel, Natalie, Brayden, Lexi and Gabi — who carry his legacy forward. He was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren Mya, Cannan, Nashua, Myka, Malia, Colsie and Ronin.
Don's sisters, Karen (Ron) Schachterle and Janet Horan, and a special family member, Leslie Steimel.
In honoring Don's life, the family wishes for donations to be made to a charity of one's choice. This reflects his generous spirit and enduring kindness.
As we say goodbye to a remarkable man, we hold dear the wisdom he imparted to his family: to never back down and to strive to be the best they could be. Don Larry Bohnsack may have left this earth, but his spirit, love, and teachings will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.
