Donald Morris

Donald Clair Morris, age 80, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 2:40 PM at the Good Samaritan Society in Albert Lea. 

Don was born on September 2, 1944, in Belmond, Iowa, the son of Ollie “Pete” and LaVonne Morris (née Hill). He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, and friend. 

He is survived by his wife, Susan Morris; his children, Stephanie (Brad) Hendrikson, Christa (Larry) Zipf, and Wade (Tammy) Morris; his stepchildren, Lisa (Jim) Johnsrud-Bennett, and Amy (Andrew) Nenninger; his cherished grandchildren, Reese, Owen and Claire Hendrikson; Margot, Helena and Henry Zipf; and Chloe and Jadyn Morris; and step grandchildren, Ashley (Tye) Rogerson, and Lily Nenninger. Don is also survived by his sister, Karen Hunt. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother David Morris, brother-in-law John Hunt, and sister-in-law Bonnie Morris.

Don was known for his kindness and generosity, touching the lives of many. He had a passion for the outdoors, enjoying fishing and hunting, and he held a special fondness for horses. He spent many summers with his horse, Abby, helping raise money for charitable organizations, including the Special Olympics of Minnesota, as part of the Friendship Wagon Train. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy aboard the USS Tolovana from 1962-1965. For many years, Don dedicated his career to Interstate Power Company as a lineman, where he was affectionately known by his colleagues as "Sparky,” “Moss Man,” and “Big Moe.” 

A cherished friend and beloved family man, Don will be remembered for his quick wit, colorful phrases, and engaging stories. He had a way of making people laugh and feel at ease. 

In keeping with his selfless nature, Don elected to donate his body to the Mayo Clinic for medical research. 

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the entire staff at Mayo Clinic Hospice and Good Samaritan Society of Albert Lea for their compassionate and exceptional care provided to Don during his final days. 

A memorial service to celebrate Don's life will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Bayview Funeral Home in Albert Lea, Minnesota. Visitation will begin at 2:00 PM followed by a service at 3:00 PM. Dinner will be provided.

Donations may be sent to the Special Olympics of Minnesota, c/o Friendship Wagon Train, Attn: John and Monica Davis, 10106 60th Street SW, Byron, MN, 55920 (Tax ID: 6438036; EIN: 41-1228157; Phone: 507-365-8064).