Obituaries : Donald “Don” Weatherwax, II

Donald "Don" Weatherwax, II of Belle Plaine, escaped this mortal realm early Thursday morning, ending his battle with Multiple Sclerosis on his own terms.

He was 66 years old and 38 years sober.

Born and raised in Cedar Rapids, Don made many life-long friends while attending Arthur, Franklin, and Washington schools. His hobbies and interests were as varied as the Iowa weather, which is fortunate as he always preferred to be doing something outdoors. Don was a life-long learner but never enjoyed doing anything for too long. In this practice he amassed more certifications and career paths than anyone -even himself- can fully or accurately account.
As an avid traveler Don rarely met a stranger. He shared his love of nature with everyone he encountered- never failing to recommend a trip to Flathead Lake & Glacier National Park where his family spent many wonderful and memorable summers.

One of the most defining moments in his life was his decision to become sober and he committed himself fully to sobriety. Through Alcoholics Anonymous he built an entirely new life and immersed himself in the AA community of support.

Don will always be remembered for his headstrong personality and acerbic humor.

His family thanks his entire medical team who assisted and treated him during his 27-year diagnosis; with special recognition to all current and former staff of Belle Plaine Specialty Care who have been so instrumental in his life these last 8 years.

In death he joins his wives Sara Ahrens Sparks and Barbara Broderick Hague; beloved sisters Rhonda and Mona, father Donald Sr, parents-in-law John & Grace Broderick and David Ahrens, cousin Robin Shatek, and many friends and mentors.

Survivors include his mother Irma, sons Donald III and Jonathan, step-daughter Gretchen, sisters Dawn and Melanie, mother-in-law Judy Ahrens, his siblings' children Jamie, Rachel, Starr, Jessica, Julian, Jennifer, Jeremiah, Aleenna, Benjamin, and Kenneth; and large extended family of in-laws and friends that he built throughout his life.

Services will be held Memorial Day weekend at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories. Details will be published in May.