In Memory

Don Monsoor

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Donald J. Monsoor, formerly of La Crosse, peacefully passed away into God's grace at home in Colorado Springs on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2008.

Donald was born May 1, 1952, to Margie (Stigen) and William "Bill" Monsoor in La Crosse.

Don is survived by his daughter, Turkia (Tia) McCauley; her husband, Steve McCauley; their son, Mitchell McCauley; Don's brother, Jeff Monsoor; Don's sister, Yvonne Jarvis; Don's sister, Mary Leahy; her husband, Ike Leahy; their children, Mike and Jodi Leahy; Don's aunt, Elizabeth Berry and family; Don's uncle, Ray Monsoor and family; Don's uncle, George Monsoor and family; Don's former wife (mother of his daughter), Teri "Lyons" Ayers; Don's longtime companion, Ginger Trovik and family; and cousins throughout the United States.

He was preceded in death by his mother; father; and brother, Michael.

Don graduated from Aquinas High School in La Crosse in 1970. His smile and engaging sense of humor were appreciated and enjoyed by all whom he met. As a young man, Don was employed at his family's business, Monsoor's Sport Shop, for many years. Don then began his career in the commercial transportation industry traveling throughout the United States taking his golf clubs and fishing poles wherever he went.

His family, friends and customers all knew that he loved people as much as he loved hunting and fishing. He had a quick wit and was well-known for his colorful stories about people, hunting, fishing and his knowledge of outdoor recreation and equipment.

Don was a genuine and dedicated sportsman his entire life. His love and devotion for nature was wholesome and sincere. His daughter, grandson, siblings and friends all felt blessed that Don shared his passion for the outdoors with them.

Don will be deeply missed by his family and friends. All who knew him will treasure their individual memories of this great guy who had a heart of gold. Don's family now celebrates Don's love of life, family and friends, and invites all who knew him to do the same at this difficult time.

When hunting, fishing, golfing or otherwise enjoying the great outdoors, the family encourages all who knew him to listen to the wind and reflect on Don's contagious laughter and smile. The family hopes that like them, others will find consolation in the belief that Don is now forever happy.

A memorial service was held in Colorado Springs on Friday, Sept. 5, followed by a private service in the mountains with family.