Don Shelstad, Sr., 87, died on April 1, 2017, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Havre, Montana on August 17, 1929 to Leonard and Rosina Shelstad.
Don was a First Sergeant in the Army and served in the 11th and 82nd Airborne. He served his country in the Korean War, and also served two tours in Vietnam. He was a highly-decorated soldier and a two-time Bronze Star recipient. He retired after 21 years in the military.
Don met his wife, Elfriede, during one of his tours to Germany. They were married for 60 years, and have resided in Colorado Springs for 45 years.
Don is survived by his wife, Elfriede; their children: Patty, Don Jr., and Tim; 7 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by 5 siblings and many nephews and nieces.
His passions in life included camping, square dancing and skiing well into his 70s. He loved board games, hunting and fishing. He was a devoted, faithful attendee of Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, and enjoyed sharing Sundays with his church community. Most of all, Don loved to spend quality time with family and friends.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 8, 2017 at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 1201 Leta Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80911.