Portage County Historical Society

Don Kottke

Donald F. Kottke (March 30, 1939 - April 5, 2016) grew up in the Sussex, West Allis and Milwaukee areas. He entered Wis. State College - Stevens Point in the fall 1957. While attending what is now U. of Wis. Stevens Point he played varsity basketball and baseball. In 1998 Don was the elected to the Wisconsin Softball Hall of Fame. For over 40 years Don played in area baseball, basketball and softball leagues finally retiring from baseball at age 74.

Don had another passion - railroads both real and model railroads. He built two sizable home layouts both being toured by sectional, regional and national conventions sponsored by the National Model Railroad Association.

Don was instrumental in the founding of the Central Wisconsin Model Railroaders, Ltd. (CWMR) becoming a Charter Member in 1987. He served as Secretary for over 25 years. When CWMR was approached by the Portage County Historical Society (PCHS) in October of 1988 concerning their intent to move the ex-Wisconsin Central RR's Bancroft Depot to Heritage Park with an offer to lease the basement of the depot to CWMR in exchange for restoration work, Don was onboard immediately! The Bancroft Depot, built ca 1897, was one of six built in that style. One depot was in Sussex. The Bancroft Depot is the only one remaining.

After the restoration of the Bancroft Depot was complete Don and a few other CWMR members turned to getting a Green Bay & Western caboose moved to Heritage Park when GBW Caboose 617 became available. Of course, Don headed up that restoration project also.

After completing the Caboose, Don, Larry Misiewicz and Fred Haase began restoration work on the Pierce Building, Post Office/Doctor's Office, General Store and upgrading the electrical systems at Heritage park. Don, Larry and Fred were members of CWMR and have received the 'Pine & Iron Award' from PCHS for preserving Portage County history.