Don Schlichte

Donald J. Schlichte passed away on Thursday November 6, 2025, at the age of 86 at home, in the loving arms of Jan, his wife of 58 years and his two daughters. Don was known for his humor, generosity and ability to strike up a conversation with anyone.

Don and his twin brother and best friend Ron were born on their father’s birthday, July 7, 1939 in Wausau, WI. Don proudly served his country from 1957-1962 and was called to Fort Lewis during the Berlin Crisis. Don met the love of his life, Jan, while working in St. Paul Minnesota. They were married September 16, 1967 and made Menasha, Wisconsin their home. For 25 years, Don and Ron owned and operated Fox Valley Dental Lab. Later in life Don drove bus for Valley Transit. Don was strong in his Catholic faith and an active member of St. John the Baptist parish and later St. Margaret Mary’s parish.

Don’s greatest joy was his family, and he leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories. An avid outdoorsman he could often be found fishing on Lake Winnebago and competing in local tournaments. He loved to share his fishing stories and fish with friends and family by hosting fish fries throughout the years. A devoted Wisconsin sports fan, he enjoyed cheering on the Menasha Bluejays, Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers. In his younger years he also enjoyed hunting, bowling, cribbage, and playing and coaching softball with the Menasha MACs. Don loved gathering with friends for game nights and dinners at his favorite supper clubs. He also cherished his many travel adventures with family and friends including memorable fishing trips to Northern Minnesota and across Wisconsin.

Don will be profoundly missed by his beloved wife, Jan and his 2 daughters Ann Stiltjes and Barb (Ben) Greuel; Granddaughters, Abby (Brandon) Van Heuklon, Molly Stiltjes, and Zoey Stiltjes; Great-Granddaughters, Baker and Rowyn; his sister, Dorothy Rothe; Sisters-in-law, Corinne (Bob) Brown and Maureen LaMone; brother-in-law, Jim (Cheryl) LaMone; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Cecilia Schlichte; Parents-in-law, Genevieve and Kenneth LaMone; brothers, Bob and Ron; brothers-in-law, Lee Rothe and Rick LaMone; and sister-in-law, Sue Schlichte.

A memorial visitation will be held from 9:30-11:00 on November 21, 2025 at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 620 Division St, Neenah, WI 54956 with a Mass to follow at 11:00 AM.  Don will be laid to rest at the parish cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Larsen-Winchester Lions Club in Don’s name.

We would like to extend our gratitude to the team from Compassus Hospice. Especially Sienna for her tender care of Don in his final moments.