Donald William Cavanaugh

Donald William Kruspe Cavanaugh, age 81, of Oshkosh passed away peacefully on February 13, 2022, at his home.  Don was born in Chicago on March 16, 1940, then spending 10 years in Butler, Wisconsin, but most of his life in Coloma, Wisconsin.   

After graduating Westfield High School in 1958, Don joined the United States Air Force and travelled the world as an Air Force mechanical engineer.  After his time in the military, he returned to Coloma and met the love of his life, Ruth Rabe, whom he married on September 13, 1968.  Don worked as a general contractor building many homes in Waushara County, but eventually joined his wife Ruth to run their family bar and grill. Don was a history aficionado, an entertaining bartender, and an antique collector always looking for the best bargain.  He loved selling his best finds at his famous garage sales and always had a story for those that visited those sales.  

He is survived by his wife, Ruth; his son, Kelly (Jule) Cavanaugh of Sun Prairie, one granddaughter, Prudence, brother, William (Bonnie) Kruspe, sister, Judy (Jim) Luce, sisters-in-law, Jean Rabe, Roberta (Fred) Erickson, several nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

At Don’s request, there will be no formal service.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Oshkosh Area Humane Society or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital are appreciated.   

The family would like to thank hospice nurses Amanda, Jen, and Madonna, as well as, Doctors Hashim Mumtaz, Kingston Okrah, Daniel Leonard, and David Koeper, for their kind, compassionate care at the Mercy Medical Center.