Donald Barnard

Donald A. "Don" Barnard, 58, of Darlington, Wisconsin, passed away on February 11, 2026.

Born June 4, 1967, in Darlington, WI, Don was the beloved son of Gilbert “Gil” Fred Barnard and Nancy Wayne (Luce) Barnard. A lifelong Darlington Redbird at heart, he grew up in the community he loved and graduated from Darlington High School in 1985. He went on to attend the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, earning a degree in Marketing and Economics in 1989.

Don began his professional career with Waste Management, where fate stepped in and introduced him to the love of his life, Laura. The two were united in marriage on May 2, 1992, in Munster, Indiana. Together they built a life filled with laughter, love, and unwavering support while raising their family in Green Bay. In 2017, Don and Laura returned home to Darlington, coming full circle to the place where his story began.

A respected general manager in the cheese-making industry, Don was known for his strong work ethic, steady leadership, and ability to connect with people. He took pride in his work, but he took even greater pride in his family.

Don had a quick wit and a natural gift for humor. He was a master of the perfectly timed joke, the playful tease, and the one-liner that could lighten even the heaviest moment. His laughter was contagious, and being around him meant you were likely to leave smiling. Whether he was grilling in the backyard, debating sports scores, planning the next family trip, hunting, golfing, or simply relaxing at home, Don made ordinary moments special.

Above all, he cherished time spent with his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and an adoring grandfather. Nothing brought him more joy than playing with his grandson, Nolan, who quickly became the center of his world. His love for his family was constant, steady, and unconditional — the foundation on which his life was built.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Laura Barnard; his sons, Christopher (Lexus) Barnard of Ridgeway, WI, and Matthew (Paige) Barnard of Platteville, WI; his treasured grandson, Nolan Barnard; and his siblings, Julia (John) Simonson of La Crosse, WI, Charles (Carol) Barnard of Darlington, WI, Barb (Bill) Schilling of rural Darlington, WI, and Karen (Tim) Moore of Navarre, FL. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in Darlington on Monday, February 16, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with Pastor Gus Barnes officiating. A private family funeral service will be held at a later date. Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.

Though Don’s passing leaves a deep void, his legacy lives on in the laughter he inspired, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.