Donald Turcotte

Donald (Don) Turcotte, Brainerd, MN, passed away at home surrounded by his family on September 12, 2025, at the age of 76.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 11th with visitation starting at 10:00 am and a service at 11:00 am, at the Brenny Family Funeral Chapel in Baxter, MN. A luncheon will follow the service.

Don was born to Ovella and Daisy Turcotte on November 12, 1948 in Brainerd. Starting at a very early age, Don had a passion for music. He played in many local bands throughout the years as lead singer and guitar player but most notably with Axel and the Wheels. Later in his music career it was his greatest honor to be joined on stage with his son Tom as drummer. Another passion of Don’s was his 50+ year career in radio advertising sales. His customers were more than business contacts, with many becoming cherished friends.

Don was married to the love of his life, Cheryl Puetz, on June 6, 1987. Together they enjoyed many wonderful years motorcycling, camping, and traveling. Time spent with family meant everything to Don, especially making memories with his grandchildren.

Left to honor his memory are his wife, Cheryl; daughter Melissa Herrera, Benson, AZ; son Tom (Nikki) Turcotte, Brainerd; daughter Ashley (Kyle) Wilshusen, Pillager; grandchildren Alex Granillo, Josh Herrera, Kelsey, Taya, Ayven and Zyler Turcotte, and Jude Wilshusen; great-grandchildren Maverick and Valeria; sister Lorraine Thoms; brother Charles (Marilyn) Turcotte; brothers-in-law David (Margie) Puetz, Jim (Pat) Puetz, and Joe (Jaynee) Puetz; sisters-in-law Mary (Tom) Chapman and Kathy (Dudley) Gangestad; along with many nieces and nephews; and special friends Virginia Smart, Henry and Leona Stockert, and Rhonda Hope.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Ovella and Daisy; sister Joyce; daughter Andrea; father and mother-in-law Joe and Evelyn Puetz; brothers-in-law Clarence Weiss and Douglas Thoms; and lifelong best friend Duane Smart.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Baxter.