Donald D. Slaughter

Donald D. Slaughter, age 65, of Saint Francis, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family — the people who meant everything to him.

Born on July 24, 1960, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Donald was the son of Rodney and Carole (Goldeman) Slaughter. He grew up in New Brighton and graduated from Irondale High School before beginning a long and steady career as a machinist with Parker Hannifin.

Donald raised his family in East Bethel, Minnesota, where his life truly centered around those he loved. He found immense joy in being a dad, and did everything he could for his kids, but everything changed when he became a grandpa — that’s when, as he would say, life really started. Known affectionately as “Papa Don,” he would do anything for his grandchildren and treasured every moment with them. Just a week before his passing, he spent an unforgettable week, doing what he loved most, camping with his family —It truly was one of his favorite activities as he made memories and bonds that will live on forever.

Donald had a passion for the outdoors, whether he was hunting, fishing, or camping, he was at peace in nature. He could often be found scanning a gravel road for Agates, which he did so often, even his young grandchildren can be seen picking rocks, licking them, and asking… “Agate?” When he wasn’t outdoors, he was no stranger to the garage, simply fixing and tinkering with things. He would rather spend 4 hours, 4 days, 4 weeks, or 4 years fixing something than wasting any money on something new. Handy, helpful, and endlessly generous, he was the one everyone turned to when something needed fixing or someone needed an extra hand, even if that extra hand came with a minor dispute on the “right” way to do something or the “Donald” way (which to his credit was a lot of times one in the same). No matter what however, his presence and help made the moment memorable, enjoyable, and often brought on plenty of laughs.

He was outgoing, easygoing, and proudly goofy. Embarrassment wasn’t an emotion or word in Donald’s dictionary, as he lived proud of his actions and had the morals to back those actions. Anger also wasn’t a trait known to the man, as he was always smiling, and always a voice of positive reason (well mostly reasonable). He was always up for a good time, and his motto was always “the more the merrier”. He welcomed everyone with open arms and a “heart of gold”. Whether you were his brother or just someone sitting next to him at the bar, if you asked him for help, he had the inability to refuse. He brought light and love into every room he entered. His absence leaves an immeasurable hole in the hearts of those who knew him.

Donald was preceded in death by his father, Rodney Slaughter, and his brother, Rod Slaughter. He is survived by his devoted children, Marc (Cassie) Slaughter and Kelci (Jordan) DeMorrett; cherished grandchildren, Carter, Carson, Mia, Case, and Cali; his loving mother, Carole Young; siblings, Lori Schroeder, Glenn (Jane) Slaughter, Michelle (Chad) Durm, and Sam Slaughter; and many treasured nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.

A celebration of life will be held in his honor. The family will release additional information as details are finalized.

Donald’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and loyalty. He will be missed beyond measure and remembered always.