Donald Russell Rotert, 92, of Sutherland, passed away on August 23, 2025.  He was born on February 25, 1933, to Joseph and Lillian (Myers) Rotert.  Don spent his life deeply rooted in the Sutherland community.

A 1950 graduate of Sutherland High School, Don went to work for the plumbing company founded in 1921 by his father.  He worked alongside his brother, Kenneth, until leaving to serve his country in the United States Army from 1953 to 1956.  Upon returning home, he resumed his work in the family business.

On December 24, 1953, Don married Peggy L. Warner.  Together, they built a life grounded in love, dedication to family, and hard work, raising three children: Deborah Jo, Donald James "Jim", and David Frank.

Don and Peg eventually took over Rotert Plumbing & Heating, continuing the legacy by passing the business to their son, Jim, and later, their grandson, Brian.  Don was immensely proud of the four generations of Rotert's who have carried on the family business.

An avid outdoorsman, Don loved hunting, fishing, and golfing.  In retirement, he and Peg enjoyed countless hours on the golf course and supporting their grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their many school activities.  He served his community as a member of the Sutherland School Board, was a member of the American Legion for over fifty years and was a charter member of the Oregon Trails Golf Course.

In 2023, Don and Peg celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary at a Christmas Eve celebration with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, a testament to a life devoted to family.

Don is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Kenneth (Betty) Rotert and Delmar (Barbara) Rotert; sister, June (Nicolas) Chick; niece, Janice Chick; nephew, Martin Rotert; parents-in-law, Marge Frels, Clarence Frels, Jess Warner; sisters-in-law, Opal Barclay, and Pat Finch; brothers-in-law, Ron Warner, Jim (Genie) Warner, and Bud (Mary) Warner.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Peg; children, Deb (Randy) Lavaley, Jim (Teresa) Rotert, and David (Sue) Rotert; brother, Dr. Larry (Kathy) Rotert; grandchildren, Brandon (Marnell) Lavaley, BreAnn (Chad) Denison, Jason (Laura) Lavaley, Brian (Shannon) Rotert, Matthew Rotert, Nickie (Matt) Kroon, Jake (Sami) Rotert, Britni (Chad) Walz; 18 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

Don leaves all who loved him with the memory of his beautiful smile, sparkling blue eyes, incredible sense of humor, and hugs…. Always Hugs.

The family asks that memorials be given to the Parkinson's Foundation, Muscular Dystrophy Association, or to the donor's choice.  Expressions of sympathy may be left at www.adamsswanson.com.

A memorial service honoring Don will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 10 AM at the Sutherland Methodist Church with Reverend Mark Baldwin as officiant.  Inurnment will follow at the Riverview Cemetery, Sutherland.  Visitation will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025, from 12 PM to 7 PM with family present from 2 PM to 4 PM at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home.

Adams & Swanson Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with arrangements.