Donald R. Walski

Donald “Don” R. Walski, a long time Winona resident, died at home on August 25, 2025, following a battle with cancer.

Don Walski was born April 29, 1954, to Sophie and Dominic Walski in Winona, MN, where he was raised. Don served in the US Army from 1971-1973. He completed his basic training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. Following training, he became a tanker in the third infantry division. He was stationed in Aschauffenberg Germany, from 1971 to 1973. Don graduated from Winona State University in 1984, with a degree in Sociology and completed his Master’s Degree in Public Safety Executive Leadership at St. Cloud State University in 2003. He began his career as a police officer in Austin, MN, and later continued with the Winona Police Department. During his tenure, he proudly attended the National FBI Academy in 1990. He was promoted to Deputy Chief in 1996, and served in that capacity until 2003. In 2003, he left the police department to pursue a full-time position as Director of Security at Winona State University where he had previously worked and taught part time. Don retired from Winona State in 2016. Don was married to Andrea Walski, and the couple resided in Winona, MN. Don enjoyed golfing, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

Don is survived by his wife, Andrea; children, Jeremy (Kara) Walski, Ryan Walski (Andrea Prodzinski), Mark (Julie) Walski, Sara Walski, Mitchell Foss, and Mason Foss; his 8 grandchildren Zack Walski, Emma Walski, Winter Edberg, Scott Walski, Benjamin Walski, Jeremiah Walski, Cana Walski, and Rowan Foss, his brother Mike Walski (Pam) his sister Linda (Gary Kramer), and his lifelong friend Frosty Clegg (Jeanne).

The visitation for family and friends will be 2pm-4pm on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Hoff Funeral Home (3480 Service Dr, Winona, MN 55987) with a memorial service beginning at 4pm. The burial will be a private event with family.

Arrangements are with Hoff Funeral Home www.hofffuneral.com

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Winona VFW Post 1287 would be appreciated.