Donald "Don" J. Reuss

Donald "Don" James Reuss, age 61, of Williams Bay, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, July 24, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Don was born on August 14, 1964, in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, to the late George Sr. and Patricia (Slack) Carolan. On June 22, 1996, he married Leslie (Sawusch) Reuss in Edison Park, Illinois. Together they shared 30 wonderful years of marriage, building a beautiful family and creating memories.

Don was a hardworking and passionate man, devoted to his family, career, friends, clients, and the many young athletes he coached throughout the years. A skilled carpenter, he took immense pride in his craftsmanship and the relationships he built with those he served. To Don, his clients were not just customers—they became friends.

Wrestling was one of Don's greatest passions. As both a coach and official, he dedicated countless hours to helping high school and youth wrestlers grow not only as athletes but as confident, respectful, and resilient individuals. He believed in encouraging others to reach their full potential, both on the wrestling mat and in everyday life.

Don was willing to lend a helping hand, put others before himself, and could be counted on no matter the situation. His unwavering loyalty and dependability left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate to know him.

Outside of work and officiating, Don enjoyed watching sports, fishing, playing cards, and board games. He will be remembered for his strength, determination, resilience, and adventurous spirit. His warm and genuine personality will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Leslie; son, Douglas (Cassidy Lynch) Reuss; brothers, George Jr. (Johnalee Kawalec) Reuss, Michael (Melissa) Reuss, William (Maria Booth) Reuss, Timothy (Linda) Reuss, and Robert (Stacy) Carolan, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, George Sr. and Patricia.

A visitation will take place on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Sugar Creek Lutheran Church, N5690 Cobblestone Rd., Elkhorn, WI, 53121, from 5:00 PM-7:30 PM and on Friday, August 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. A memorial service will immediately follow the visitation on Friday at 12:00 PM. Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home and Crematory of Elkhorn is honored to serve the Reuss family. Online condolences can be made at www.haaselockwoodfhs.com