Donald William Widmer

Donald William Widmer "Don" 92, of Arvada, CO passed away August 7, 2024 of natural causes.

Don was born in Detroit, Michigan on June 4, 1932 to John and Louise Widmer. He enlisted in the US Army at age 17 in 1949 and served in the Korean War. After the war, Don furthered his military schooling completing courses in Guided Missiles Components Repair at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey and Nuke Hercules Missile Electronic Maintenance at Fort Bliss, Texas. In 1969 he was awarded The Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service as Electrical Material Chief. He earned additional commendations, letters of appreciation and distinguished awards during his military career. He truly loved his time in the Army and was proud to serve his country.

While stationed in Denver as a recruiter in 1952, Don was introduced to Mary Jule Peschel through a mutual friend. Don and Mary Jule were married on June 27, 1953 at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Denver. Don continued his military service for 20 years with many stateside duty stations which included one overseas tour in Hawaii. After his retirement in 1969 with a few additional years spent in Hawaii, Don and Mary made their permanent home in Arvada, Colorado in 1974.

Don worked in the construction industry as a master carpenter. His knowledge and precise workmanship earned him the respect of builders and contractors in the Denver area.

Early on Don discovered his love of "Corvairs" and he and Mary were members of the Rocky Mountain Corsa Club. Weekends were for events with other members for fun and relaxation. You could find him evenings in the garage tinkering with one of the many Corvairs he owned.

In his later years he took up the hobby of building model boats. The many boats that he built were well crafted and finely detailed. Battery packs were installed and Don and Mary spent evenings at Lake Arbor running his fleet on the lake to the amusement of onlookers. As arthritis set into his hands, Don lovingly passed his boats to his grandson Nicholas.

Don is survived by his wife of 71 years Mary Jule, his daughters Theresa Widmer and Barbara (Wolfgang) Bernaldt, grandson Nicholas (Sarah) Vidaurri, granddaughter Theresa Vidaurri and great-grandchildren Vivien, Samuel and Gage. Don is preceded in death by his son John Joseph Widmer.

Per his wishes no services will be held. He will be interred with military honors at Fort Logan National Cemetery at a later date.