Donald William Edin, 75, son of Algot and Dorothy Edin died peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 11, 2016.

Starting as a young boy Don did a variety of jobs: shoveling snow, mowing lawns, delivering papers, planting trees, harvesting wild rice, and pumping gas. He never complained about work. When there were jobs to be done, he made it enjoyable by incorporating breaks, fun, and having a quitting time. He developed a can-do attitude, common sense, and many skills.

Don graduated from Cloquet High School in 1959. He chose to live and work in Cloquet to be close to lakes, wildlife, and the great outdoors. He worked at Conwed/USG for 41 years retiring in 1999 and calling in sick only two days. He served in the Coast Guard. On April 12, 1980 he married Karen Dahl at Our Savior's Lutheran, Cloquet, MN. In 2010 they made a special trip to Sweden, met his cousins Patrik, Peder, Katrin and their families; and toured the areas where his father and grandparents lived. Don and Karen moved to Rochester in 2013. Don walked regularly and quickly met and visited with many neighbors along his route.

Don lived a life of gratitude. He was content with his life and made a point to thank others for their work and kindnesses. He felt it was important to make someone feel special. He had a quick wit and got the biggest grin if he could create a goofy gift or pull off a subtle prank. He was a man of honor who had high standards for himself and others. Don was strong in body, mind, and spirit and faced life head on. He had many phrases and words of wisdom to guide himself; and hopefully, inspire others. He was confident, fair, generous, and thoughtful – never forgetting birthdays or special occasions – and finding the perfect gift for loved ones. He valued home and family.

He is preceded in death by his much loved parents, father and mother-in-law.

Don is survived by his wife, friend, and partner of 36 years, Karen; his son, Russell (Linda Steffen), 2 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren; step daughters Jeri Ward, Robyn Jurek, Teresa Combs and their families; in-laws Jan (Hank) Lewis, Marilyn (Sam) Kapplinger, Allan (Marion) Dahl, Robert Dahl, Larry (Kay) Dahl, and Richard (Jennifer) Dahl, as well as many special nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to Our Savior's Lutheran, Bethel Lutheran, Salvation Army, or a charity of your choice.

The Celebration of Life for Don will be at 11:00AM, Tuesday, May 17, 2016 at Bethel Lutheran Church in Rochester with Pastor Jason Burggraff officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. In the future Don's cremains will be inured in Bethel's future columbarium.

Macken Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.