Donald Gehring

Donald Oliver Gehring, 92, of Freedom, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully in the early morning of March 1, 2025, at Good Shepherd Nursing Facility in Seymour after a short battle with cancer. Born on February 25, 1933, in Freedom to Oliver Jr. and Dora (Stern) Gehring, Donald was the oldest of three children and lived a life deeply rooted in family, faith, and the land he loved.

Don grew up in Freedom and attended St. Peter Lutheran Grade School and Seymour High School. He met his beloved wife, Nancy, at an Older Youth Group meeting, and they were united in marriage on September 3, 1955. Together, they built a life centered on their fifth-generation farm, a testament to Don’s lifelong passion for farming. He poured his heart into growing crops, raising cattle and increasing milk production of the dairy herd. He took great pride in his work, tending the land with dedication and care.

A lifelong member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Freedom, Don’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was an active participant in Bible studies and found joy in serving his church. Don had a servant’s spirit, always offering to help out whenever he could at church or in the neighborhood. He was very generous and shared his many blessings with those around him.

Beyond the farm and church, Don’s vibrant spirit shone through in his many interests. He joined the Barbershop Chorus (Kaukauna/Little Chute chapter) in 1965 which later merged with the Fox Valleyaires. For 60 years, he loved the camaraderie of his fellow chorus members and would seldom miss a Tuesday evening rehearsal right up until the end.  He was a proud member of a local Two-Cylinder Tractor Club. Don liked to travel when possible, and when at home, he could often be found on his computer, using Google Maps to plan future adventures or follow the adventures of others.

Don is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 70 years, Nancy (Manley) Gehring; his three daughters, Rhonda (Richard) Van Vreede, Carla (Steve) Knorr, and Judy (Brian) Garvey; his cherished grandchildren: Adam (Maddie) Van Vreede, Dustin (Bryanna) Van Vreede, Deb (Jon) Van Asten, Megan (Dan) Verhagen, Erin (Jake) Van Boxtel, and Chelsi Knorr; and 14 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his brother, Robert (Sue) Gehring; his sister, Marion (Loren) Anderson; sisters- and brothers-in-law Karen (Gary) Bellin, and Mary (John) Stolzman; as well as many nieces, nephews, and special friends who will carry his memory forward.

In addition to his parents, Oliver Jr. and Dora (Stern) Gehring, Don was preceded in death by his father- and mother-in-law, Carlyle and Frances (Andrews) Manley; his granddaughter, Amy Knorr; his sister-in-law, Barbara Gehring; his brother-in-law, Lyle (Judy) Manley; and his sister-in-law, Betty Manley.

Don’s legacy lives on in the family he nurtured, the farm he cultivated, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness, curiosity, and song. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, located at N2740 N. French Rd., Appleton, WI. Family and friends may call at the church on Monday, March 10, 2025, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at St. Peter Lutheran Church Cemetery on French Road. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established in Don’s name.

The family extends a special thank you to the staff at Good Shepherd Nursing Facility and Moment’s Hospice for the compassionate care provided during Don’s short stay. Special shout-out to Glen Wendt for his dedicated support and friendship as well as numerous neighbors and friends.