Donald Besky Obituary

Age 87 of St. Paul.
Passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on July 16, 2025.
Preceded in death by son Lawrence; brother Robert. Survived by loving wife of 57 years, Caroline; children, James (Cathy), Michelle, Jason (Maija) & Heather (Mike) Svenson, 13 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Rose: many family & friends. Don was born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, alongside his older brother, Bob. Growing up near the Mississippi River, the river played a significant role in shaping his early years, and he often compared these experiences to the adventures in Mark Twain's books.
From a young age, Don developed a strong love for sports, nature, neighborhood games, fishing, and camping trips.
He graduated from Monroe High School in St. Paul in 1955 and, driven by his passions, pursued a degree in Parks and Recreation Administration at the University of Minnesota. He became the first in his family to graduate from college and earned his master's degree in 1975.
Don proudly served in the United States Naval Reserve for three years and was honorably discharged in 1965.
He met Caroline Hengel at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in St. Paul, MN, and they married on June 15, 1968. Together, they raised five children: Lawrence, James, Michelle, Jason, and Heather.
Over the course of his 32-year career, Don dedicated himself to planning and overseeing recreation programs for both children and adults. His career included 12 years with the Parks & Recreation Department in St. Paul, MN, 12 years as the Parks & Recreation Director for the City of Blaine, MN, 6 ½ years as a Recreation Supervisor for the U.S. Department of the Army in Tokyo, Japan, and 1 ½ years in the same role in Fairbanks, AK.
Don's love of travel took him to many places, including Canada, Mexico, South America, Japan, Korea, China, Hawaii, Alaska, and Europe.
After retiring, Don and Caroline moved to their dream home on Little Blake Lake, WI.
He spent his time fishing, gardening, buying and selling books, writing stories and a book of poetry, watching sports, traveling, and enjoying the company of his family.
In 2018, Don and Caroline relocated to Inver Grove Heights, MN to be closer to family.
A man of deep faith, Don was raised in the Lutheran church and carried his faith with him throughout his life, raising his own family in the same tradition.
Don passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving wife, daughters, daughter-in-law, and many grandchildren.
Funeral Service will be held 11:00 am Tuesday, August 5th at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 7600 Cahill Ave., Inver Grove Heights, with visitation 1-hour prior. Interment Ft. Snelling National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to your favorite charity in Don's memory.