Donald Anthony Koller

Donald Anthony Koller, age 71, of Stillwater, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, surrounded by his loving family following a courageous battle with brain cancer.

Born on July 29, 1955, in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, Donald was the son of the late Raymond Charles Koller and Armelda Elizabeth (Johnson) Koller. In the mid-1980s, Donald moved to Minnesota to continue his career as a computer programmer with Land O'Lakes. Over a distinguished tenure spanning more than 40 years in Information Technology, he was known for his steady dedication, sharp intellect, and quiet loyalty to his colleagues. Following his retirement from Land O'Lakes, Donald dedicated his time to St. Charles Catholic Church, working part-time to support cemetery record recovery and maintenance for St. Michael Cemetery. Caring for the grounds was a shared devotion; he and his wife, Sandy, faithfully volunteered together as part of the cemetery's Tuesday cleanup crew.

On May 19, 1984, Donald married the love of his life, Sandra Kay (Lemke) Koller. Together, they built a home centered on unconditional love, mutual respect, faith, and devotion, proudly raising their two children, Daniel and Sara. Donald cherished Sandra deeply, loving her with tenderness until the day he died. As a father to Daniel and Sara, he held high expectations, encouraging them to achieve great things while always serving as their rock offering steadfast guidance, warmth, and an open door whenever they needed him most.

A devout Catholic, Donald's faith was a cornerstone of his daily life, and he lived it to the fullest through acts of charity, humility, and quiet service. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus Council in Stillwater, where he lived out his commitment to fellowship and helping those in need. Donald also had a lifelong passion for automobiles, holding a special fondness for classic cars, particularly the 1960 and 1979 Ford Thunderbird. Later in life, he took up distance running, regularly challenging himself on local courses. His favorite event was the Run Stillwater St. Croix Crossing 5K, and he took equal joy in walking local 5K races side by side with Sandy. Above all, Donald was defined by his generous heart; he was a gentle, selfless man who instinctively put the needs of others before his own.

Donald's family extends their deepest gratitude to the Lakeview Hospital Hospice team and the dedicated staff at Estates at Linden for the exceptional care, dignity, and compassion they provided Donald in his final days.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Charles and Armelda Elizabeth Koller, and his beloved grandson, Noah Parker Shuck.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sandra; his children, Daniel (Jennifer) Koller and Sara (Jeremiah) Shuck; his cherished grandchildren, Connor Koller, Christopher Koller, Oliver Shuck, and Margaret Shuck; his siblings, David Koller, William Koller, Raymond Koller Jr., Cindy Koller, Karen Holt, Ann Buchberger, Allen Koller, and Randy Koller; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at the Church of St. Charles in Bayport, Minnesota, with visitation beginning one hour prior to Mass at 10:00 AM. Interment at St. Michael Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Donald's honor to the Church of St. Charles.