NEW ULM–Donald Burris, age 93 of New Ulm, died Monday, June 30, 2025 at Oak Hills Living Center in New Ulm.

A private Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with ennichment in New Ulm Catholic Cemetery.

To leave an online condolence for the family, or to sign the guestbook, please visit: mvfh.org

Donald is survived by his daughters, Katharine Carrier of Elk River, Susan (Patrick) Roiger of New Ulm, and Cynthia (Robert) Rueckert of New Ulm; sons, Michael (Barbara Lee) Burris of Morristown, and Daniel (Barbi) Burris of Ball Ground, GA; 17 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; sister, Mary Ann Mundy of Lincoln, CA; other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Agnes Burris; wife, JoAnn Burris; son-in-law, James Carrier; sister, Janice Harner; brothers-in-law, Dick Harner and Dee Mundy; in-laws, Glen and Edna Theis.

Donald Earl Burris was born September 21, 1931 in Washington, IN to Joseph and Agnes (Williams) Burris. He attended and graduated from Washington Catholic Schools. Don enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served 4 years, one of which, in the Korean War. Don worked for Bordens/Firmenich as an accountant for 40 years. He loved going to work and dedicated his entire career to the company. When the company needed extra help, Don was always willing to put on a uniform and work in the plant. He was the last of 9 original employees from Bordens/Firmenich. Don loved telling the story of how he met the love of his life, JoAnn, on a blind date. Just two weeks later, they were married on November 13, 1953 in Phoenix, AZ, beginning a beautiful journey that would span over 60 years. Their union was blessed with 5 children, whom together they raised in New Ulm. Don had an energy that never slowed. He loved to exercise — whether he was out walking, running, bicycling, or lifting weights. He enjoyed motorcycle rides, McDonald’s trips after church, and family swims at the municipal pool. Don had a sweet tooth and a generous heart; his candy drawer was always open for sharing. He never said no to a Twinkie or a Russell Stover marshmallow chocolate, and his afternoons often included The Price Is Right or Judge Judy playing– along with any sport that happened to be on TV. He kept up with the world through the pages of The Journal, the Star Tribune, and stacks of magazines that arrived in the mail every month. His cars were his pride and joy — always spotless, always cared for with the same dedication he gave to the people and things he loved. Don was a devout member of St. Mary’s Catholic church in New Ulm. He participated in many generous activities, including sponsoring children through the Christian Children’s Fund; sometimes up to 5 at a time. Above all, Don loved his family. He loved to spoil his grandchildren and great-grandchildren with candy and money in the Chickie. He enjoyed taking them to the park, going for walks, and playing dominos and cards.

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