Donald "Donnie" Bauerkemper

Donald “Donnie” Dean Bauerkemper was born on April 16, 1960 in Atlantic, Iowa, to Darrell “Barky” and Dorothy Bauerkemper. Donnie attended Walnut Community School and graduated in 1978. He continued his education at DMACC, where he earned an associate’s degree.

Throughout his life, he built a strong work ethic and served his community in many ways. He worked in the banking industry, with Crop Production Services in Hancock, Chapman Metering in Avoca, and the nonprofit organization, Zion Recovery. His commitment to helping others was especially evident through his service with the Walnut Fire Department, where he dedicated 40 years of active service. He was an EMT-I and served as Squad Captain for many years. He remained an honorary member until his passing. In addition, he worked part time with Medivac in Atlantic for more than 19 years. He was also an original member of the Sons of the American Legion in Walnut.

A man of energy and enthusiasm, Donnie embraced life fully and shared that spirit with those around him. He coached little league baseball and did the chain gang for Walnut High School football for many years. He loved attending his sons’ and grandchildren’s sporting events and took great joy in supporting them. He was always ready to lend a hand to friends and family during harvest, a reflection of his dependable and generous nature. He enjoyed water skiing, snow skiing, and played men’s and couple’s league slow-pitch softball for multiple years. Donnie also enjoyed deer and pheasant hunting, playing cards and dancing (Best. Dancer. EVER.) Donnie loved to travel with his wife, riding their motorcycle through 25 states and Canada. In all, they traveled to 44 states as well as Mexico, Jamaica and enjoyed a Caribbean cruise. Among the many things that meant the most to him, the Walnut Community Center Foundation was his passion and his baby.

Above all, Donnie cherished his family. Donnie passed away surrounded by his family on Saturday, August 29, 2026, having attained the age of 66 years, 4 months and 13 days. He is survived by his wife of nearly 44 years, Gaylean Bauerkemper; sons, Brian (Shaunna) Bauerkemper and Todd Bauerkemper; 2 grandchildren, Bentley and Bella Bauerkemper; sisters, Sandy (Terry) Donohoe and Jani (Cub) Sheehan; and by his father and mother-in-law, Marvin and Carole Schroder. He was preceded in death by his father, Darrell “Barky” Bauerkemper; his mother, Dorothy Bauerkemper; and his brother, Billy Bauerkemper.

Donnie will be remembered for his public service, loyalty to his community, his love of family and friends, and the joy he brought to everyday life. His presence will be deeply missed and warmly remembered by all who knew him.

*In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to Walnut Community Center Foundation and the Walnut Fire Department in memory of Donnie Bauerkemper.