Donald John Amandus Reese, passed away at Goodhue Living Center, on Monday, October 12, 2026, at the age of 100, surrounded by family.
Donald was born in Goodhue Township, Minnesota, on September 15, 1926 to Arthur Sr. and Amanda (Lohmeyer) Reese. He was one of 6 sons. Donald was baptized, confirmed and a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, rural Goodhue. He attended St John’s Lutheran School. Donald joined the US Army in October of 1950, where he proudly served.
On June 28, 1952, Donald was united in marriage to Lila Mehrkens at St John’s Church, Bear Valley, MN. They were blessed with 8 children. Farming was Donald’s life. Donald enjoyed attending auctions and collecting antiques. He also had a passion for horses and John Deere tractors. Donald and Lila went to many polka dances. They also enjoyed bowling, traveling and playing cards.
Donald’s legacy to others can simply be said in three words: Faith, Family and Farming.
Donald is survived by his loving wife of 74 years, Lila Reese of Goodhue; children, Kathleen (Jeff) Ofstie of Goodhue, Diane Reese (Thomas) of Lakeland Shores, Susan (Mike) Landry of Kenyon, David (Lori) Reese of Goodhue, Daniel (Bonnie) Reese of Goodhue, Dale (Lorraine) Reese of Goodhue, Cindy (Bill) Cordes of Red Wing and Jodi (Jeff) Whitcomb of Zumbrota; 29 grandchildren; 50 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Donna Reese, Betty Mehrkens and Joyce Larson; many nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Donald is preceded in death by his brothers, Arthur Jr. (Velva Mae), Laverne (Lenea), Harlin (Dorothy), Hilbert (Bernie) and John Reese.
On Saturday, October 17, 2026 the Funeral Service will be at 12 noon at St. John’s Lutheran Church, rural Goodhue with Rev. Robbin Robbert officiating. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service at the church starting at 10am. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the St. John’s Lutheran Church or School.
Mahn Family Funeral Home – Bodelson Chapel, Red Wing, is entrusted with arrangements. www.MahnFamilyFuneralHome.com
