Donald Wand

Donald Albert Wand, affectionately known as "Cotton," was born in Quincy, Illinois in 1929, the eldest son of Philip and Clara Wand. In 1952, he married Alberta Louise, and their union blessed them with six sons—Timothy Joseph, Anton Phillip, Vincent Patrick, Mark Andrew, Nicholas Eugene, and Victor—and four daughters—Mary Rose, Rebecca Kay, Amy Marie, and Sarah Jeanine. His family extended to include numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, totaling more than fifty.

Donald enlisted in the United States Navy in 1946, serving as a boilerman aboard the USS Iowa and later on the transport ship Thomas Jefferson. His Navy career was marked by dedication, although it was briefly interrupted when his first child was born while he was stationed off the coast of Cuba. After leaving the Navy, Donald applied his skills as a boiler inspector at Continental Insurance Company.

He was a passionate supporter of the Kansas City Royals and avidly followed the Chiefs and Notre Dame football teams. Known as the family's reliable handyman, Donald took pride in his annual gardening, renowned for its abundant harvests. Homebrewing was another beloved pastime, reflecting his craftsmanship and dedication.

Throughout his life, Donald cared for various animals, including chickens, guineas, turkeys, and rabbits. For a time, the family even enjoyed the companionship of a pony, reminiscent of Donald's own childhood. He fostered his sons' imagination by allowing them to dig foxholes in the front yard, enhancing their outdoor war games with authenticity.

Donald lived by principles of fidelity—to his wife, his faith, and his family. In the 95th year, Donald reluctantly left us, emphasizing fidelity to his wife, and family as his legacy. He and Alberta daily prayed the Rosary through the entirety of their marriage. They hoped that his family will continue to hold these values that they prayed for. To his sons and daughters, he imparted this challenge, and to him we say... Challenge accepted.

Visitation will be from 3 pm to 5 pm Sunday, June 30, 2024 with Rosary services to begin at 5 pm all in Herman Lohmeyer Funeral Home. A second visitation will be from 10 am to 11 am Monday, July 1, 2024 in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church with the Funeral Mass to begin at 11 am with Fr. Tom Kiefer celebrant. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in memory of Donald may be made to the Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri 424 E. Monastery St. Springfield, MO 65807.

The Funeral Mass will be Livestreamed on SEAS Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJiZxtWVPYw