July 14, 1933 – July 6, 2026
Donald “Don” Shoutz, age 92, passed away on July 6, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, education, service, and dedication to his family and community.
Don was born on July 14, 1933, in Forrest City, Minnesota. He attended District 44 Country School south of Watkins before graduating from Kimball High School in 1951. He continued his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in 1960 with double majors in History and Biology and a minor in Physical Education. He later completed graduate work toward a master’s degree in European History.
Don devoted more than three decades to education. He began his teaching career in Royalton, where he taught for three years before moving to Cokato in 1963. After spending one year teaching in Montevideo, he returned to Cokato, where he became a beloved social studies teacher at Dassel-Cokato High School. Throughout his career, Don also coached numerous sports and faithfully served as the public address announcer for football, basketball, wrestling, and swimming events until his retirement in 1993. His passion for teaching and school athletics left a lasting impression on generations of students and families.
Outside the classroom, Don found great joy in the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter and enjoyed practicing taxidermy for 25 years, a craft that reflected his appreciation for nature.
On December 30, 1961, Don married the love of his life, Lois Turnquist, at Randall Presbyterian Church in Randall, Minnesota. Their marriage was marked by enduring love, faith, and perseverance. After the heartbreaking loss of their infant son and daughter, who were born prematurely and are buried in St. Cloud, they lovingly adopted two children through Lutheran Social Service of Minneapolis—a son, Shawn, and a daughter, Kari.
Faith was the cornerstone of Don’s life. As his Christian walk deepened, he faithfully served his church as an elder, deacon, and Sunday school teacher. He also volunteered for 15 years as an instructor for the 55 Alive driver safety program, sharing his knowledge and care for others.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Ora Shoutz, wife Lois Turnquist, his infant son and daughter, and brothers Clayton, Doug and Vernon.
He is survived by his son, Shawn (Lesa) Shoutz, grandchildren Justin (Maggie) Shoutz; James (Cassie) Larson, Sara Jo (Jason) Newborg, Mason (Eternity) Gottwalt, Gavin (Amy) Gottwalt; daughter Kari (Joe Jarl), grandchildren; Courtney (Blake) Hansen, Gunnar Jarl, Leif Jarl, 16 great grand children, brothers; Lowell (Sandy), Kenneth (Carol) and Sister Linda Lou (Jim) Schmitt.
Don’s greatest legacy was not found in awards or accomplishments, but in the countless students, athletes, church members, family, and friends whose lives were shaped by his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Church in Cokato, Minnesota. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorial preferred to the American Diabetes Association. Arrangements by Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cokato, MN 320-286-2534, www.swansonpeterson.com
Jul
07