Donald James Jalowitz, age 85, of Hayward, Wisconsin, passed away peace fully at his home. He was born on January 23, 1941, in Ashland, Wisconsin, to John and Helen Jalowitz. He graduated from Cable High School, then Northland College with a bachelors in teaching and went on to acquire his masters as well. Don dedicated much of his life to education and the people around him. He began his teaching career in 1963 at Cable High School and went on to teach in a wide range of settings throughout his career, including in Poland and even within the prison system. Locally, he also taught at Hayward Community Schools and Hayward’s charter school, HACIL, leaving a lasting impact on countless students. 

To many, Don was more than a math teacher—he was known as the “Banana Man.” Each morning before school, he would stop at the grocery store to buy bananas to hand out to students who came to school hungry or without breakfast. It was a simple act that spoke volumes about his generosity and the way he quietly cared for others. Even beyond the classroom, Don continued helping students by tutoring online, working with individuals across Wisconsin and into Minnesota. His passion for teaching and helping others never faded. He remained a tutor for HACIL until 2 weeks prior to his passing. 

Don also took great pride in building his home in Cable—known to many as the “Porcupine Shack”—largely by himself. It stood as a reflection of his determination, work ethic, and independence. It not only served as his home but a quiet vacation spot for family gatherings, Birkie skiers and anyone who needed a place to stay, never asking for payment. On April 24, 1999, Don married the love of his life, Clara (Froemel) Jalowitz. Together, they shared a deep love of dancing, often traveling to different states just for the opportunity to “go dancing.” It was one of the many joys they shared side by side. Don had a unique way of connecting with people. He was known for asking others what their “Hallmark story” was—his way of opening a deeper conversation about life, faith, and whether they knew Jesus Christ. His faith was an important part of who he was, and he carried it into his everyday interactions with others. 

Don is survived by his wife, Clara; his stepchildren, Brian Pejka, Carie (Shane) Tull, and Jim (Sherry) Pejka; grandchildren Jordan (Steve) Szemraj, Kellen (Giselle) Tull, Riley Tull, Halle Tull, Ben(Katline) Pejka, Zach Pejka great-grandsons Weston and Liam and nephew Bryan Jalowitz. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Helen Jalowitz and his brother Robert Jalowitz 

Services will be held for family and friends on Saturday April 25th with visitation at 10am, service at 11am with a luncheon to follow at 12pm at Northern Lights Christian Church in Hayward, WI.