Mr. Donald J. Pearson

July 11, 1939 - November 3, 2016

“Observation followed by experimentation leading to further observation followed by further experimentation.” This definition of science — included on every exam and assignment — remains embedded in the minds of thousands of Berlin-area students…and now can serve as part of the lasting legacy of Donn Pearson. Donald Joseph Pearson entered eternity November 3, dying from heart complications at Appleton Medical Center. Born in Marinette, WI on July 11, 1939, Pearson committed himself to serving the Berlin community beginning in 1965, remaining engaged and invested until his death. With a 45-year tenure as a teacher in the Berlin Area School District, Pearson’s impact was widespread and deep. Besides teaching science and math and heading the local teachers’ union, he also served as a coach: high school basketball and football; middle school track, football, boys and girls basketball and girls volleyball. His imposing size, booming voice and larger-than-life persona often intimidated students initially. Over time, however, they recognized he was more fatherly than frightening. His unique blend of humor and high expectations often brought out his students’ best — both in and out of the classroom. Well-known for dispersing nicknames, hand-made buttons and candy treats, “Mr. P.” cherished the relationship he had with his students. His investment into the community continued beyond the school grounds and past school hours. For decades Pearson worked for the Parks and Recreation Department, beginning the Open Gym, T-Ball, Dartball and Flag Football programs, managing and maintaining the Webster Street pool, Miller Natatorium and Berlin Aquatic Center, initiating the Berlin Swim Club, teaching swimming lessons, lifeguard training, as well as CPR and First Aid. Pearson personally maintained an outdoor skating rink near the swimming pool, staying up all night flooding the area in hopes of it freezing well enough for the community to enjoy during the day. He also was instrumental in organizing community movie events beginning in the 1970s and continuing well into the 21st century. Most recently, Pearson has been a fixture at Berlin’s P4K Youth Center running tournaments, overseeing activities and continuing to interact with local youths. A 1958 graduate of Marinette High School, Pearson attended Marinette County Normal/Teacher’s College and finished his schooling with a bachelor’s degree from University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He taught one year in Oconto Falls before moving to Berlin. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Marlys (JoAn); sons, Troy (Becky) of Farmington, MN and Shawn (Dawn) of Berlin; granddaughters, Morgan and Mikayla; foster son, Tim (Patrice) Magdanz and Elizabeth and Hunter; three brothers, Fred (California), Warren (Peshtigo), and Frank (Menomonee, MI); three sisters, Loretta Delisse (Menomonee), Bev Zorza, and Sally Taylor (both of Marquette, MI). He was preceded in death by his mother, Ann, father Fred, brother, Robert and sister, Shirley. A man of deep faith, Pearson’s favorite song was “The Old Rugged Cross”. His family and friends mourn his loss but also rejoice in its truth: “So I’ll cherish the Old Rugged Cross, ‘till my trophies at last I lay down. I will cling to the old rugged cross and exchange it some day for a crown.” A Celebration of Life gathering is fittingly slated for Saturday, November 12 at Berlin’s Clay Lamberton School gymnasium. A short service will begin at 10 a.m. followed by a chance to visit, share and interact extending until 1 p.m. at which time the family will have a private burial service at Bush Cemetery in the township of Berlin. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made on his behalf for a scholarship fund. Monies can be sent to Berlin’s Farmers & Merchants Bank earmarked “Pearson Memorial”.