Donald Edward VanCalligan, 87, of Sheboygan, passed away on March 21, 2026 at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice. Born June 2, 1938, in Sheboygan, he was the only child of the late Donald Sr. and Pauline Ruppel VanCalligan. A 1957 graduate of Central High School, Don went on to serve his country in the United States Navy. On February 16, 1963, he was united in marriage to Judith Rae Nickel at St. John’s United Church of Christ. Together they shared 59 years of marriage until Judy’s passing on June 30, 2022.
Don had a long career as a professional painting contractor, first working alongside his father and later as owner of Don VanCalligan Painting and Decorating. He was a devout and active member of St. John’s UCC, where he faithfully cared for the church building for many years. An avid outdoorsman, Don enjoyed hunting, fishing, and bird-watching. He was also a sports fan, following the Packers, Brewers, Bucks and Badgers. Don and Judy loved to travel, and enjoyed family vacations, winters in Florida, and trips to many different parts of the world – often aboard a cruise ship. Above all, Don’s greatest joy was spending time with his family.
He is survived by his children, John (Kim) VanCalligan, Susan (Marc) Durant, and Cathy (Joe) Kudirko; his grandchildren, Derek (Kelly), Tyler (Dulcey), and Emily VanCalligan, Claire (fiancée Madeline Lomprey) and Sophie Durant, and Anna Kudirko; his great-grandson, Archie VanCalligan; his sister-in-law, Ruth Siegworth; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents and wife, Judith, Don was preceded in death by sisters-in-law Carol Henning and Mary Butzen; and brothers-in-law Richard Butzen and Frank Siegworth.
A Memorial Service for Don will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at St. John’s UCC, 13th & Lincoln Avenue. Family and friends are welcome at the church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the nurses, staff, and volunteers of the Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice for their compassionate care and support. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice in Don’s name are appreciated.
Please visit our website to share your stories and leave your condolences for the family www.olsonfuneralhome.info.
The Olson Funeral Home & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Donald’s arrangements.
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