Obituary of Donn Laube

Obituary of Donn Egan Laube

1933 – 2024

His Life
LAUBE - Donn Egan Laube, a long-time resident of Springside, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024 , at the age of 91. Donn was born on the family homestead northeast of Springside on February 20, 1933, to August and Erna (nee Malischewski) Laube. In 2019, he moved to Yorkton Crossing and, in 2023, to Saskatoon.

Donn was born during the Great Depression, a time that shaped his character. He appreciated everything he had and was known for his resourcefulness—often fixing things instead of discarding them, as he believed that there was always a use for everything.

Donn's family moved into Springside in 1944, where his parents opened Laube’s General Store, which became a staple of the community for many years. Donn attended teacher’s college at Caronport and was offered a chance to attend spring training camp with the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. However, his love for family and commitment to the store led him to decline the offer, choosing instead to take over Laube’s General Store and continue his family’s legacy.

On March 31, 1959, Donn was united in marriage to Jean (Margaret) Calver, and together they were blessed with three children. Their love for each other was the foundation of a beautiful family life. Donn and Jean built a warm, loving home where family and friends were always welcome.

Donn had a deep love for sports, particularly baseball, and was known for his exceptional talent on the field. He was awarded the MVP of the South Saskatchewan Baseball League and later inducted into the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and the Yorkton Sports Hall of Fame. His passion for baseball extended beyond playing as he enjoyed coaching and passing on love for the game to the next generation.  Donn was also an avid curler, enjoying both competitive and recreational games over the years.

Family and community were central to Donn’s life. He cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren, barbequing, wiener roasts, and celebrating holidays with family and friends. Donn was an enthusiastic supporter of his children’s and grandchildren’s activities, whether it was sports, music, or other events. His love for life and family was evident in everything he did.

Donn served as alderman on the Springside Town council for 31 years and volunteered for many years with the Springside School Board, United Church Board, and Springside Recreation Association. He was honoured for this volunteering and commitment to the community by having a street named after him – Laube Lane.After selling the family store in 1980 Donn enjoyed a successful career in real estate until retiring in 1998. 

Donn inherited his enjoyment of yard work from his mother.  He took pride in everything he did including the landscaping of his front yard.  His children knew the front grass was not for playing on – that all changed when his adored grandchildren came home.

Donn enjoyed taking scenic drives with Jean around the Springside area, particularly to Good Spirit Lake, Madge Lake, the Qu’Appelle Valley and other nearby spots. These drives were some of his favorite ways to spend time outdoors and appreciate the beauty of the local landscape. Donn also loved travelling and enjoyed many family trips. Exploring Banff and Europe with Jean were some of his most memorable.

Donn found joy in playing the accordion and piano, sharing his music with others. His love for music and dance brought joy to many, and he continued to play for the residents at Yorkton Crossing, where his spirited performances brightened the days of those around him. He took pleasure in dancing and the many sing-alongs he had with family and friends created memories that will be cherished forever.

His Family
Left to celebrate Donn’s life are his children: Kevin Laube (Calgary), Donna and Barry Walz (Warman), and Grant and Michelle Laube(Regina). Donn will be truly missed by his grandchildren: Kelsey Laube, Connor Laube; Kristin Walz , Janna Walz, Kylie and Sean Fenrich; Mackenzie Laube, Mikayla Laube, Carter Laube and Ryan Laube; and his great-grandson Henry Fenrich. He is also survived by his sister Arnetta (Wayne) Serafin (Regina),  sister-in-law Vanji Laube (Calgary), brother-in-law John (Jeannie) Calver (Bathurst), and sister-in-law Lynn (Gordon) McKay (Saskatoon) along with his nieces and nephews.

Donn was predeceased by his beloved wife Jean (Margaret) in 2004, his sister Adeline Bucknum, his brother Mervin Laube, and his brother-in-law Everett Bucknum.

Final Words
Donn lived a full and rich life, filled with love, laughter, and meaningful relationships. He was a man of great character, integrity, and generosity, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His family is grateful for the many blessings he gave them and the memories he created.

Donn’s family would like to thank the staff at Yorkton Crossing, St. Ann’s in Saskatoon and all those who have supported them during this time. Your kindness and care meant the world to Donn and his family.

Funeral Services were held on Monday, December 30, 2024 from the Springside Baptist Church with Rev. Jen Dresser of St. Andrew’s United Church officiating. Words of remembrance were given by Gordon McKay. The pianist was Laurel Teichroeb and special music was sung by Marlon & Tammy Milbrandt. Interment followed in the Springside Town Cemetery with Donn’s Grandchildren, Kristin, Janna and Kylie Walz, Mackenzie, Mikayla, Carter, Ryan, Kelsey and Connor Laube. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the Springside Cemetery Fund or the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan as gifts of remembrance. Condolences can be sent to the family at baileysfuneralhome.com

Arrangements were entrusted to Bailey’s Funeral Home.