Donald LaCoursiere, 81, of Oklee, MN passed away peacefully on Wednesday September 9, 2026 at Villa St. Vincent in Crookston, MN surrounded by his loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Oklee, MN with Father Bob Schreiner officiating. Burial will follow at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery, rural Oklee, MN.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a prayer service at 6:30 PM at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN with Deaon John Bruggeman leading. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

Donald “Don” Joseph LaCoursiere was born on May 31, 1945, in Crookston, Minnesota, to Emery and Lea (Delorme) LaCoursiere.

Don was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Brooks, Minnesota, where he began a lifelong devotion to his Catholic faith. He graduated from Plummer High School and later earned an Associate Degree in Business from the University of Minnesota Crookston.

In March of 1965, Don proudly entered the United States Army and honorably served his country until his discharge in March of 1968. Following his military service, Don worked dispatch for the Red Lake County Sheriff’s office, and he drove school bus for Red Lake Falls school district.

Don embarked on a remarkable career as an over-the-road truck driver, traveling the nation's highways for 47 years. One of his proudest career achievements was being able to travel to all continental 48 states, Canada, and Mexico and he logged well over 4 million miles. His strong work ethic, dedication, and commitment to providing for his family earned the respect of all who knew him.

Don was united in marriage to Betty Erickson and together they had four boys, Kenneth, Scott, Brian, and Steven. On September 16, 1996, Don was united in marriage to Annette Klasen and they made their home south of Oklee. Together they shared a wonderful life for 33 years until Annette’s passing in 2024.

Don had a gift for bringing people together. He loved playing cards, spending time visiting with family and friends, and sharing jokes that brought smiles to those around him. Music was an important part of his life starting with accordion lessons at the age of 13. He enjoyed playing the accordion with his band, the Country CBr's for 11 years. Don also enjoyed dancing. Christmas was a particularly special time for Don. He delighted in playing Santa Claus, spreading joy to children and families, and took great pride in decorating his home each holiday season.

A devoted member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Don demonstrated his faith through service. For many years, he faithfully mowed the grounds of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, and Lambert Township Cemetery. He was also a proud member of American Legion Post 596.

Blessed with a large and loving family, Don is survived by his sons, Kenneth (Kristina), Scott (Kabie), Brian (Jessica), and Steven (Dawn); 17 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; his brothers, Vernon (Barb) LaCoursiere and Darrel "Pete" (Diane) LaCoursiere; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Annette; his parents, Emery LaCoursiere and Lea LaCoursiere; stepmother, Irene LaCoursiere; his brother, Larry LaCoursiere; and many other relatives.

Don will be remembered for his steadfast faith, love of family, sense of humor, generous spirit, and willingness to serve others. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friendships he cultivated, and the countless lives he touched throughout his years.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.