Donald Harlan “Coach” Kollath, age 90, of Sheboygan, died on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at home, surrounded by his wife and family.
He was born on February 10, 1936 in Appleton, WI. A son of the late Herman and Martha Kollath. He graduated from Appleton Senior High School and received his BS and MS degrees in Physical Education from University of Wisconsin – LaCrosse, while there, he was a standout cross disciplinary athlete in basketball, track, and football, where he received recognition on the Wall of Fame for this accomplishment. He served in the US Army Medical Corps from 1958 – 1960 at Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas.
On September 26, 1992, he married Monica Francis at Holy Name of Jesus Church in Sheboygan, WI. His first wife Mary Ellen Ryan of Wisconsin Dells, preceded him in death. Don and Monica enjoyed traveling throughout their 34 years together, visiting all 50 states.
Don was a well-rounded, accomplished coach, educator and athlete. He was an inspiration to all who knew him, especially the youth, who he took great pride in guiding for over 50 years. Don was the proud founder of both Sheboygan Youth Football and Lake Country Academy. He was also a head coach for the Sheboygan County Redwings-Semi-Pro football team.
Along with Donald’s wife, Monica, he is survived by his children, Kathleen (Kevin) Hellenbrand and Kent (Aimee) Kollath and grandchildren, Katelyn Kollath and Kody Hellenbrand; nieces, nephews, other family and friends.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents, former wife, and siblings, Elaine (Ralph) Kollath, Phyllis (Victor) Bruex, Merlen Kollath, Marlow (Dorothy) Kollath and Harland Kollath.
A Memorial Service for Donald will take place at 4:00 PM on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at Holy Name Catholic Church, 818 Huron Ave. in Sheboygan, with Father Nick Baumgardner officiating. Family will greet visitors on Thursday at church from 2:00 PM until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Don’s name can be sent to the Sheboygan Youth Football.
The family would like to thank the staff at Aurora Medical who served room 104.
Ballhorn Chapels Funeral & Cremation Care Center is caring for Donald and his family. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.ballhornchapels.com
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