Donald “Don” Hugh O’Handley, Sr., 85, of Pewaukee, was called to his heavenly home Jan. 7, 2025. Don was born Nov. 10, 1939, in Highland Park, Michigan, to Malcolm J. O’Handley and Georgie R. O’Handley. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Douglas A. O’Handley, and sister, Gayle M. McCarty. Don’s survivors include his beloved wife of 61 years Norma O’Handley (Bystrom), daughter Denise O’Handley-Kritzmire (Robert), sons Donald H. O’Handley, Jr. (Wyndy) and Brian O’Handley, grandsons Zachary Vossekuil, Cassidy O’Handley, Brady Katz and Hayden O’Handley, granddaughter Katherine O’Handley, sister-in-law Janice Woog, and many step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.
Don’s dynamic personality influenced the lives of all who knew him. He was a devoted family man and successful entrepreneur with many passions. Raised in a modest background, Don’s driven and steadfast nature led him to achieve much success, and he found great joy in sharing the rewards of his hard work with others.
At age 17, Don joined the U.S. Navy, serving on the USS Oriskany (CVA-34) aircraft carrier in the Far East. He earned his GED while in the U.S. Navy and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan. Don began his career in sales for GE HealthCare before starting his own leading X-ray equipment sales, service and leasing company in 1981. A resident of the Pewaukee area for 48 years, Don and wife Norma also enjoyed a second home in The Villages, Florida.
Don had a zest for fun and a marvelous sense of humor. He loved golfing, sailing, boating, skiing, piloting his own plane, welcoming others with festive gatherings at the homes he shared with Norma, and so much more. His family and friends are blessed to cherish a bounty of memorable times spent together.
Don’s family welcomes you to join them in celebrating his life on January 25, 2025, at St. Charles Parish, 313 Circle Drive, Hartland, Wisconsin. Visitation from 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM. Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 AM, military honors to follow. The burial will take place at 1:15 PM at Wisconsin Memorial Park, 13235 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations to the USO, Wounded Warrior Project or Alzheimer’s Association be considered.