Donald Dickinson

Monday, November 21, 2016 4:49 pm

Donald Dickinson, 73, of Spillville, died Friday, Nov. 18, 2016, at the Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse, Wis. A celebration of Don’s life is Tuesday, Nov. 22, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the basement of Stone Hearth Inn Restaurant, Decorah.

Donald E. Dickinson was born Oct. 17, 1943, in Broken Bow, Neb., to Harold and Opal (Brown) Dickinson. After Harold passed away, Opal was later remarried to Vernon Hansen. Don worked for Textron until his retirement in 2005. He then went back to work as a driver for Northeast Iowa Community Action Transit for a period of time. He enjoyed traveling, spending time with small groups of family and close friends and caring for his dog, Zoey. He was an avid Chicago Bears and Nebraska Corn Huskers football fan and spent many days watching the games. He also enjoyed coffee time with his friends at Engan Express in Ridgeway.

Don is survived by his significant other, Lori Christen; three daughters: Angela, LaVonne and Kimberly. Don had a special love for Lori’s daughter, Casey, and he considered her a daughter to him, as well. He also is survived by one sister, Jo Ann Henry; a granddaughter — “Papa’s Little Squirrel” — Aleah. He also had many nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Opal Dickinson and stepfather, Vernon Hansen; two sisters, Wanda and Pamela (adopted); grandparents: John and Tina Adams and Joe and Hilda Dickinson.