Donald Joseph Walenta
March 31, 1928 ~ April 17, 2024
On Wednesday, April 17, 2024, loving father and grandfather, Donald Joseph Walenta, 96, of Wichita, Kansas passed away peacefully at his home. Don was born March 31, 1928 in Ziebach County, South Dakota to John N. Walenta and Anna (Fritschen) Walenta. Don grew up on the family sheep ranch in Ziebach County, South Dakota. It is on this sheep ranch that Don developed a compassionate outlook on animals and their treatment. Nicknamed “Doc” by his family, he would often take the lead in providing aid and care to the many sheep, horses, cattle, dogs and cats that lived at the family ranch. After spending many hard winters as a sheep herder and rancher, and being a child of the Great Depression, Don was determined to do something bigger with his life. Don was a natural entrepreneur and consummate hard worker. An early step in his journey was when he, his brothers (Jerry and Tom) and their father established Walenta Distributing in Rapid City, SD, a distributing company for Miller Beer. In the mid-1960s, Don moved to Wichita where he became the Midas franchisee in the area. By the end of his 42 years in business he had six Midas locations in Wichita and one in Hutchinson. Don and his wife also owned and ran the boutique clothing store, Gingers. He recognized early on in his life the value of real estate and built a successful real estate development and investment business. A bug he would end up passing on to his son. Don was always willing to help whenever he could and one of the last deals he made was purchasing the property of the beloved local Starlite Drive-In Theater so it wouldn't have to close. Don was known for being a fair and honest businessman. His door was always open to anyone looking for help or advice. On May 22, 1976, Don married Ann Thomason. Together, they had two children, Suzanne and Jeff. They traveled together, shared many experiences and created many lasting memories.In 1994, Don was able to realize his dream of owning his own ranch. He took great pride and joy from working many long hours to create an immaculate refuge. The ranch would be recognized by the Butler County Conservation District, hosted the Butler County Ag Day for several years, and was even featured in the opening scene of the movie Mars Attacks! His retirement years were spent reading, riding horses, working his ranch and taking many walks with his loyal dog, Fable. Don will be missed for his big smile, generous nature, and full head of hair.Don is survived by his son, Jeff (Amy) Walenta of Wichita, KS; daughter, Suzanne Walenta of Leon; grandchildren, Natalie and Julia; brothers, Jerry Walenta of Rapid City, SD, Dan (Mary) Walenta of Phoenix; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by both of his parents; brothers, Thomas, Bob, Nick; sisters, Irene and Mary Ann; his wife, Ann; and his beloved dog, Fable.Visitation will be held from 4:00 - 6:00 pm, Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary. Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, April 25, 2024, at Lakeview Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Hope in the Valley Equine Rescue, 9025 N. Broadway St., Valley Center, KS 67147 and the Kansas Humane Society, 3313 N. Hillside St., Wichita, KS 67219.Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.
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Uncle Donald was my Godfather and always treated me so special in my youth. His nickname for me was “Frenchie.” I remember traveling with Grandma to Donald and Ann’s wedding. Donald and my dad, Jerry (Jerome), always had a special bond. He was a kind, compassionate and loving man and I will always remember him fondly. My love and prayers to you all.
Renee (Walenta) Shroyer
Rapid City, SD
He let me take my dog along when we went fishing in the Black Hills. Of course, I had to make sure my dog’s paws were clean before getting back into the car. He was much older than me; old enough that he could have forgotten us younger siblings, but he didn’t. We talked often, sharing thoughts on business, economy and family. In the later years, we agreed more on politics. Recently, we shared our concerns on the direction of our country. That’s the way he was for me. He was always interested in things improving.
I remember the many birthday celebrations that we shared with Uncle Donald, Ann, Suzanne and later Jeff – my brother Michael and Suzanne are super close in age – like days – and we’d go back and forth between Wichita and San Antonio for their birthdays. I also recall a fun Christmas where they all came to San Antonio (sorry, no white winter there…). Later in life, I had a great the privilege of getting to know Suzanne (and by extension Don, Ann, and Jeff) when Suzanne and I were both living in Minnesota. It was fun getting to know each other as adults.
When family is spread out as we are, it is hard to know aunts, uncles, and cousins so these times really mean a lot.
Such very fond memories! I can still hear Don’s laugh and see his smile!
He will be missed for sure! Suzanne, Jeff, Amy and girls, you’re all in my heart and prayers! May God give you peace and help you to hold onto the beautiful memories you have with your dad.
Ann Marie (Walenta) Haus
Katy, Texas