Donald George Syring Sr., a long-time resident with connections to Pine City, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 11, 2022, at the age of 93. Born on December 9, 1928, in St. Paul, MN, to Arthur William and Emma Bertha (Waldhauser) Syring, Donald lived a full life marked by dedication to his family, his work at Pioneer Engineering, and his love for the outdoors. His passing is a significant loss to his family and friends, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
Donald grew up in a large family, with three brothers, Arthur, Irvin, and Robert, and two sisters, Lorraine and Marlene. His life took a new chapter when he married Gloria Bennett on September 5, 1953. Together they had four children: Susan, Cheryl, Donald Jr., and Craig. After their divorce in 1962, Donald married Dorothy Bye and added three more children to his family: Michael, Dale, and Donna. Donald’s family expanded further with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a testament to the large and loving family he fostered throughout his life.
Professionally, Donald was a dedicated employee of Pioneer Engineering. He began his career there shortly before the birth of his first child, Susan, and remained a loyal member of the company until his retirement. Alongside his primary job, Donald also applied his skills in electrical work, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to providing for his family.
Beyond his professional life and family commitments, Donald was an avid outdoorsman. Hunting and fishing were not just hobbies but passions that defined much of his leisure time. He enjoyed bow and rifle hunting, duck hunting, and fishing, often spending countless hours in nature. Many cherished memories were created during hunting trips with his son Mike on family land and deer hunting excursions to his cabin in Dairyland, WI. Photographs capturing his successful hunts and fishing trips are a testament to his love for these activities.
In his later years, Donald valued simple pleasures and companionship. He enjoyed spending time with his friend Jim, who had a garage across the street. Donald appreciated Jim’s craftsmanship, admiring the wooden clocks, boxes, and trinkets Jim created. These moments of camaraderie and appreciation for simple craftsmanship were important to him.
In his final months, Donald faced declining health, culminating in a stroke the week before his passing. He was admitted to Regions Hospital on Friday, April 8, 2022, and passed away peacefully just days later. His family expresses deep gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Regions Hospital for their compassionate care during his final days.
Donald George Syring Sr. is survived by his large and loving family, including his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren:
- Susan
- Cheryl
- Don Jr. (Julie)
- Craig
- Michael (Dee)
- Dale
- Donna (Dave)
Grandchildren: Justin Brust, Rebecca Syring, Krystal (Daub) Bartylla, Jason (Ashley) Brust, Dean (Amanda) Syring, Don III (Kristi) Syring, Jenna (Ben) Krieglmeier, Michael (Dee) Syring, Dale Syring, Donna (Dave) Syring.
Great-Grandchildren: Leland Erichsen, Trinity Syring-Larson, Jameson, JoLee, Evelyn, Oliver, Jake, Jocy, Ali, Gage, Finn, Crystal, Erica, Jacob Finch, Dale Jr, Dustin, Steven, Nate, Brittany, and Emma.
Donald will be deeply missed by his extended family and many friends.
A Celebration of Donald’s Life will be held from 1-5 PM on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at the North St. Paul VFW #1350, located at 2483 7th Ave E, North St. Paul, MN 55109, in the Downstairs Hall. For inquiries, please contact 651-777-2855. This gathering will be an opportunity for friends and family to share memories and celebrate the life of Donald George Syring Sr.
