Donald E. Gollata, age 87, of Manitowoc passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026 at River’s Bend Health and Rehabilitation Center.
Don was born on September 14, 1938, in Manitowoc, son of the late Anthony and Evelyn (Terens) Gollata. He graduated from Lincoln High School and then served in the United States Air Force from 1958 to 1962. He married the former Eileen Post. She preceded him death in 1977. He then married the former Judith “Judy” Dolezal, August 19, 1978 at Campbellsport UCC. Don worked at Manitowoc Shipbuilding for 42 years until his retirement. He enjoyed painting, fishing, and watching the Brewers and Packers. Don was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Knights of Columbus, Senior Center Watercolor Club, and Manitowoc Camera Club. On April 3, 1973, Don was elected a Ward Alderman of the 9th District, which he served until April 1986.
Don is survived by his wife: Judith “Judy” Gollata, Manitowoc; one son: Paul (Barbara) Gollata, Stevens Point; four grandchildren: Caitlyn, Emily, Seth, Shane; one brother: Ronald (Janice) Gollata, Manitowoc; two brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Jack Dolezal, Edward (Judy) Dolezal, Mariann Dolezal; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents: Anthony and Evelyn Gollata; his first wife: Eileen Gollata; one son: Lawrence Gollata; two brothers: Terrance “Terry” Gollata; James Gollata; one sister: Ilene Stuiber; father-in-law and mother-in-law: Charles and Irene Dolezal.
Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026 at St. Francis of Assisi Parish Marshall Site, 2109 Marshall Street, Manitowoc. Rev. Doug LeCaptain will be celebrating the Mass of Christian Burial. Relatives and friends may call at the church on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Military Honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 88.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com
Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Pfeffer Funeral Home of Manitowoc is assisting the family with arrangements.
The family would to thank the nurses and staff of River’s Bend Health and Rehabilitation Center and Heartland Hospice for the care and compassion shown to Don.
