Donald H. Wise Jr.

Donald Hooper Wise Jr., age 75, of Oshkosh, finished his earthly race and passed into the presence of his Savior Jesus Christ on August 31st, 2026. Don was born on September 19th, 1950 in Evanston, Illinois, the only child of Donald Sr. and Dorothy (Frey) Wise. He graduated from Evanston Township High School and worked in the credit collection field for 32 years. Don married Kathleen McGowan in 1974 and they were married for 20 years. In 1996, after attending revival meetings, Don began living for Jesus. His life was exemplified by serving others—something that anyone who knew him will immediately attest to when asked about Don’s impact on them. As an active participant in Alcoholics Anonymous, he enjoyed sharing his story with others, as he himself celebrated being sober for the past 53 years! In 2002, Don chased a dream and moved to Colorado Springs, where he lived and served others until moving back to Wisconsin in 2015. While in Colorado Springs, he helped to run Men of Valor, a home for those coming out of prison and off of the streets. Don’s “no fear” mentality from growing up in the Chicago area served him well in the many ministry opportunities that the Lord gave to him. Those who knew him during his time in Colorado have testified about how he constantly encouraged them to use their God given gifts to serve the Lord and others. Don moved back to the Midwest in 2015 and landed in Oshkosh, where he remained active, despite his declining health. If you didn’t see him at the Second Chance Thrift Store on N. Main St., you would have found him on his scooter down by the river, or in Menominee Park. Don’s hat was his unmistakable trademark. It read, “God is good all the time.” Don believed that and lived it, and he was unashamed to talk with anyone about the Gospel, and what Jesus had done for him. Wherever the Lord had Don, and in whatever season of his life, he had an active role in the churches he found himself affiliated with. Don attended Living Stone Church in Oshkosh for a time, until he was physically unable to climb the stairs any longer. He was a blessing to the congregation and remained connected with them through Facebook—another one of Don’s trademarks! He loved a good joke and could always be counted on for posting something that would brighten someone’s day. Don was preceded in death by his parents. A funeral service celebrating Don’s life will be held at Living Stone Church, 302 Church Ave., Oshkosh, WI on Saturday, September 26th, at 2:00 p.m. Guests are invited to gather for visitation from 1:00 p.m. until the service begins.

Donald H. Wise Jr.

September 19, 1950 - August 31, 2026