1/27/2021 1:36:00 PM Don Wantock, former SHS guidance counselor, dies at 95
Donald W. Wantock, 95, of Winona, and formerly of Stewartville, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021, at Benedictine-St. Anne in Winona.
He was born on May 10, 1925, in Winona, to Robert and Ann (Pampuch) Wantock. He graduated from Cotter High School, Winona State Teacher's College, and earned his master's degree from the University of Minnesota.
During World War II, Don served in the Navy aboard the USS Salamaua CVE-96 aircraft carrier in the South Pacific. His ship survived a direct hit mid-deck by a Japanese Kamikaze pilot, and later the big typhoon of 1945, which almost capsized the ship. Don earned four battle stars for his service.
He was a high school teacher at Peerless, Montana, Bison, South Dakota, and Lewiston. For 20 years, he was a guidance counselor at the Stewartville High School in Stewartville, retiring in 1976.
Don was a voracious reader, and after retirement, he applied his love of reading by teaching speed reading classes to educators and business professionals. An avid golfer, he recorded four holes-in-one at area golf courses.
On June 18, 1960, Don married Mary Lou Anderson of Amboy, and she preceded him in death on Jan. 11, 2015.
In addition to his wife, Don was preceded in death by his twin sisters, Teresa and Delores, brothers, Edmund and Joseph, and a nephew, Bill Curbow.
He is survived by his nephew, Richard (Yvonne) Wantock of Winona.
Honoring Don's wishes there will not be any funeral services held. He will be laid to rest at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston.
Online condolences or memories may be left for Don's family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.
Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
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