Dominic Louis Pogreba of Independence WI, age 77 passed away on February 14^th at Gunderson Health Center surrounded by family and friends. He was born September 29^th, 1946, to Frank and Emma (Smieja) Pogreba. Don was more of a hands-on learner so in lieu of reform school he joined the army in 1964 and served proudly as a radioman and tank operator with the 77^th ARTY 1^st CAV DIV. He was a lifetime member of VFW Post 1530 and the American Legion Post 52.  Don wore many hats in the working world then finally settled in at Wick Buildings, and retired in 2008.

Don is survived by three sons, Brian (Brittany Hopper) of Baraboo WI, Doug of Baraboo WI, and Josh (Theresa Held) of La Crosse Wi, and Sister-in-law Dianne Pogreba of La Crosse WI.  His seven grandchildren included Dayna (Tony) Dahmen of Wisconsin Dells WI, Nikki (Stephen) Timm of Sun Prairie WI, Emily Pogreba of Baraboo WI, Abigale Pogreba of Baraboo WI, Alois Pogreba Baraboo of WI, Joshua Pogreba of La Crosse WI, and Samuel Pogreba of La Crosse WI, and one great grandchild Charley Dahmen. He had many nieces and nephews, but he loved time with his favorite niece. He was proceeded in death by his Parents and all of his siblings, Robert, Dorthy, Alphonse, Joe, Louie, Al, Marian, Clarence, and Betty

Don’s grandkids were the sparkle in his eyes, he loved watching them all grow into great humans, and he was so proud!!

Don’s nieces were probably his favorite, which one the most favorite we will never know………. But we think after raising three smart ass boys it was the many calls and conversations with the “girls” that he loved so much that really completed his days.  Pops enjoyed traveling to visit his family and friends. He also enjoyed hunting in Wisconsin and out west.  After retirement Don moved to La Crosse to help keep the daytime bartenders on task and deliver the till bags. His role was so much more, such a great companion for his sister-in-law Dianne and dedicated grandpa. He also never missed the annual fishing trip to Canada for a good shore lunch and a Labatt Blue.

Don was a social butterfly, he enjoyed bullshitting and giving people the business at brunch on Thursdays or with the taco Tuesday crew. He was also a very demanding euchre partner, if you didn’t guard the gate you would hear about it! We think his desire to beat Crowley on Thanksgiving and Easter every year added at least a couple years of life for us!!

We would like to thank Heather Wiltse for taking such good care of him on the regular.

He was always there when you needed him, whether you needed help with a project, a ride, an ear to bend, a drinking partner, or a supervisor, he was always there. We love you DAD!

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday February 25^th from 1pm-5pm with military honors at 2pm at the Pettibone Boat Club 614 South Pettibone Dr. La Crosse, WI 54601.  Coulee Region Cremation Group.

Please Join us for a beverage, bite to eat and storytelling. There will be a burial on Monday the 26^th at 10am in Independence, WI for any family or friends that would like to attend.

In lieu of flowers we ask that donations be made the Freedom Honor Flight.