Donald R. Pichner, 78, of Owatonna, died Sunday, November 25, 2012 at Homestead Hospice House in Owatonna following a recent diagnosis of advanced pancreatic cancer.. Don was born Oct. 31, 1934 in Owatonna, MN, the son of Hubert J. and Mary (Kubat) Pichner. He graduated in 1952 from Owatonna High School and served in the United States Army from 1955-1957. He worked at the Owatonna Post Office, retiring after 30 years of service. He was united in marriage to Bernadine Milsoe on November 24, 1965 in Virginia, MN, settling in Owatonna. Since retiring, Don has assisted his nephew with farming operations on the family farm southeast of Owatonna, providing backup chores help to Doug and daughter Kay''s horses. He was the family carpenter and whatever Don built, was built to last. Don was an active member of NARF, promoting the organization, recruiting new members and acquiring speakers for meetings. He was a member of the Aurora Lutheran Church. Don was an active member of the American Legion and VFW enjoying the stag dinners and supporting veterans concerns. His life interests included gardening, old time music and conversations with family and friends. He will be remembered as an avid sports fan, loving husband, father, and uncle. Don is survived by his wife, Bernadine and daughter Kay of Owatonna. He is also survived by nephews Doug (Jeanne) Pichner, Brian (Marla) Westfield, Brent (Deb) Westfield and nieces Debbie (Duane) Gehring, and Renee (Brendan) Reardon and many great nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his father, Hubert; mother, Mary; brother, Eugene; and sister, Mary Jo. Visitation will be at Aurora Lutheran Church on Wednesday November 28, 2012 from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM. Funeral services will be held Wednesday November 28, 2012 at 2:00 PM at Aurora Lutheran Church with Reverend Jonathan Davis officiating. Interment will be in the Aurora Lutheran Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to Aurora Lutheran Church or the donor''s choice. Michaelson Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Visitation: 11/28/2012 12:30 11/28/2012 14:00 Service: 11/28/2012 14:00