Donald “Donnie” J. Suchla

Donald Joseph Suchla, 87, of Arcadia, passed away Wednesday, October 11, 2023.

Donnie was born November 1, 1935, in Arcadia, to Thomas “Tom Bill” and Martha (Klonecki) Suchla. At a young age, Donnie went to help his father at Suchla’s Garage, where he became a skilled mechanic, tow truck driver, and a master storyteller. On March 28, 1963, he married Beatrice Buchholz.

Donnie worked at the Winona Dray Line as a diesel mechanic until he took over the family’s salvage and towing service. He devoted his life to helping others in need. Outside of work, Donnie found joy in life’s simple pleasures, such as fishing, spending time at the camper and collecting nostalgic items. He was an avid baker and was known for delivering dozens of cupcakes to his grandchildren. Donnie loved animals and would often take his canine companions along for rides. Most of all, Donnie loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Donnie is survived by his wife, Beatrice; children: Rick (Mary Jo) Toepfer, Sandra Suchla, Randy (Brenda) Suchla, Cindy (Pete) Winnie, and Kay Krismer; 17 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; siblings: Theresa Stanislowski and William “Bill” Suchla; and many other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Gary Suchla; granddaughter, Melissa Suchla; grandson, Zachary Suchla; and siblings: Jerome Suchla, Leander Suchla, Marion (Dallas) Earney, Arvilla (Vince) Kupietz, Bernadine Sonsalla, and Kenneth “Jim” Suchla.

Family and friends are invited for visitation Friday, October 20, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., at Wozney-Killian Funeral Home, where a public rosary will begin at 4:45 p.m., followed by a prayer service. Burial will be in St. Stanislaus Cemetery, rural Arcadia. To express condolences to his family online, please visit www.wozneykillianfh.com.