USA72 - Albitz, Martin P. & Anna Maria (Willman) / Mamie (Newby)

Donald "Dutch" Albitz, 89, of Onalaska, Wis., passed away on Jan. 23, 2012, at his home surrounded by family.
Donald was born in La Crosse, Wis., to John and Laura (Selke) Albitz on June 22, 1922. He was joined in marriage to Pauline Harrison on Nov. 17, 1945, in Forestville, Md.
Donald will be remembered for his service to his country. In 1937 at age 15, Don and a group of friends joined the reserves, going on to serve in the U.S. Navy. Don was aboard the U.S.S. Oklahoma on Dec. 7, 1941, at Pearl Harbor. Having survived the attack, Don continued his service aboard the battleship U.S.S. Indiana as an anti-aircraft gunner. Participating in nearly every major engagement in the south pacific during World War II, Don eventually earned 13 battle stars and achieved the rank of chief gunner's mate. After 16 years in the military, Don returned to his employment at G. Heileman Brewing Co. as a mechanic and remained there until his retirement in 1985.
Don's pastimes were filled with fishing, hunting and gardening.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; son, Dennis Albitz; sisters, Louise Lathrop, and Florence Albitz; and brother, Martin Albitz.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Gundersen Lutheran Hospice and to the staff of the Tomah V.A. Medical Center.
A private memorial mass will be held at St. Patrick Parish in Onalaska with Father Steve Kachel officiating. Burial will follow at Onalaska Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Gundersen Lutheran Hospice or to the Children's Miracle Network. Please visit www.dickinsonfuneralhomes.com for more information and to share online condolences.