Don Richard Blades, age 65, passed away unexpectedly on September 7^th, 2017 at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse. He was born on February 6, 1952 in Cicero, IL to Harold Blades and Delores Jarvis.

Don moved to Streamwood, IL as a child. This is where he met and fell in love with his wife Jennie. They were married on May 14^th, 1969 and had 3 daughters. After moving to La Crosse Wisconsin he enrolled in Western’s accounting program. He graduated with an accounting degree then proudly joined the Fastenal team in Winona MN.

Don was known for his love for his family and, of course, his love for the Chicago Bears! When he was not enjoying music, a movie, or a football game, he took pleasure in feeding the birds and love to watch the eagles soar over the bluffs and rivers.

Don is survived by his wife, Jennie Blades; mother, Delores Schinleber; sister in law, Jeannie (Jeff) Nylander; daughters, Angela Blades, Stacey (Matthew) Kammel, Judy Wellnitz; grandsons, Richard and Brandon Blair; granddaughter, Kayla Wellnitz; nieces, Melissa (Ben) Engen, Cassie Fillicetti, Tiffany Jacobs; nephews, Brian Nylander, Tony (Dawn) Ruffin, Joey Fillicetti, Bobby Jacobs, Zeb Judy, Jesse Jacobs; great nieces and nephews, Lily, Magnoia and Violet Engen, Bobby, Tommy, and Jamie Christianson, Delanie and Mitchell Ruffin; and great-great nieces, Heaven Jacobs and Sofia Mustari.

Don is preceded in death by his father, Harold Blades; sister, Saundra Fillicetti; and brother, Jeff Jacobs.

We would like to send out a special “Thank you” to all of the special doctors, nurses, and their assistants at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse.

A celebration of life will be held from 12:30 until 2:30 pm on Saturday, September 23, 2017 at Coulee Region Cremation Group, 133 Mason St. Onalaska, concluding with a memorial service at 2:30 pm also at the funeral home. Pastor Stephanie Steiner will officiate.

In lieu of flowers memorials to the family are preferred.

Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.