Donald Baustian

Donald Dean Baustian was born on July 27, 1924, in Luverne, MN to Hans and Maymie (Nitteberg) Baustian.  He graduated High School from Lake Benton, MN and attended the University of Minnesota where he earned a teaching degree in Agriculture Education.

Don was united in marriage to Patricia Bergen on August 6, 1949, at the Presbyterian Church in Stillwater, MN.  The couple was blessed with 5 children and lived in southern Minnesota until moving to Staples in February of 1958.  Don worked as an Agriculture Teacher in Staples, where he worked for 30 years.  After retiring the couple worked at the Christmas Store in Yellowstone National Park and later at Mount Rushmore in the gift shop.  They enjoyed wintering in Rockport, TX for a number of years.

Don enjoyed the outdoors, music, reading, traveling, and family.  He was active in the Staples Men’s Chorus, and the Staples United Methodist Choir.  He was very involved with education, the community, and Rotary in Staples, as well as the Kiwanis Golden K’s in Alexandria.  Don and Pat enjoyed camping trips and taking the children across the United States.  They also enjoyed volunteering at Knute Nelson and visiting with the residents.  Don will be remembered as a true gentleman in every sense of the word.  He was even in his disposition, consistent in his beliefs, and loved his country, church, and family.

Don died on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at Knute Nelson in Alexandria at the age of 97.  He is survived by sons, Brian (Patti) Baustian of Alexandria, Brent Baustian of Alexandria; daughter, Barbara (Donald) Swenson of Oakdale; 7 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.  Don is preceded in death by his wife Patricia; parents Hans and Maymie; sons, Bradley and Bruce Baustian; and sisters, Wayva, Orva, Hazel, and June.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:30 PM on Friday, December 10, 2021, at United Methodist Church in Alexandria.  Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church.

The Family requests that you consider making a donation to the Knute Nelson Foundation in lieu of flowers.

A live stream and recording of the service will be available 2:30 PM on Friday, December 10, 2021, on the funeral home website.