Rev. Harold Donis, 97, died March 3, 2021. His life was defined by his love for and ministry to people, and above all, his love for the Lord. He served as Pastor to nine congregations over several decades, and to countless others in his community.
Harold was born February 19, 1924, to Katharina (Strauch) and Konstantin Donis in Lincoln’s thriving community of Germans from Russia. His childhood home was full of laughter, love, discipline, and tomfoolery, which continued throughout his life. Harold enjoyed joking, teasing, and laughing, always looking on the humorous side of life.
After serving in the Army during WWII, Harold married Kathleen Dwinell, In 1948, Harold and Kay chose to follow Christ, and attended St. Paul Bible Institute before entering the pastoral ministry. Together they served congregations in Cable, WI, Minot, ND, Wadena, MN, Monticello, MN, South Holland, IL, Fort Wayne, IN, Wyandotte, MI, Bowling Green, OH, and Lincoln, NE.
Harold learned carpentry from his father, and employed his woodworking skills in various ways – constructing two church buildings, renovating and adding to residences, and designing and creating furniture. Harold also had a large, diverse clock collection and was known as the “Tool Man,” who provided used tools for many Lincoln residents.
He is survived by his daughters, Deborah Kay Anderson and son-in-law Robert (Bob) of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Pamela Ruth Ryczek and son-in-law John (Jack) of Clinton Township, Michigan; his grandchildren, Megan DeHate, Lauren Anderson, and Rachel Anderson, and great-grandchildren Claire, Savannah, Oliver, Josie and London, and many nieces and nephews and dear friends.
Harold was preceded in death by his wife, Kathleen Dwinell Donis on February 16, 2020 (4 months before their 75th wedding anniversary); his daughter, Kathy, on February 13, 1948; his brother Constantine Donis; and his sisters Rose Julich, Marie Helzer, Martha Benham, Elizabeth Koch, and Katherine Pabst.
A visitation will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Friday, March 5, 2021 and one hour prior to service at Roper and Sons Midtown Chapel.
Funeral service will be held Saturday, March 6, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at the Roper and Sons Midtown Chapel at 4300 O Street.
Memorials to First Street Bible Church at 100 W F St, Lincoln, NE 68508.
Following the CDC COVID-19 guidelines, we will comply with social distancing seating and limited gathering sizes for all visitations and services. Masks are required and we respectfully ask for your understanding and adherence to these guidelines.