The Passing of IPA Hall of Famer Don Peachey

With great sadness, we inform you of the passing of Don Peachey, a 2011 Hall of Fame Inductee. We offer our deepest condolences and sympathies to his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all his polka friends and fans.

Don C. Peachey, 91, of Burnett passed away peacefully at St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac on Thursday, January 23, 2025.

Don was born on July 21, 1933 the son of James E. and Vivian V. (Hanser) Peachey in Beaver Dam.  He was a graduate of Horicon High School’s Class of 51 and attended Madison Business College and UW Madison.  He proudly served his country in the United States Army, serving in the 1st Cavalry Division. He was stationed in Japan where he was appointed Director of the 8th Regiment Drum and Bugle Corp.

Don was a beloved and respected American bandleader, accordionist, producer, arranger, and recording artist starting in the 50’s. He brought joy and cheer to countless lives through his music, leaving behind a legacy of cherished musical memories.  Don Peachey Band’s well known danceable and toe tapping arrangements became a staple of cheerful hospitality at over 5,425 band performances.

Peachey was elected “Bandleader of the Year” by the Wisconsin Orchestra Leaders Association in 1973 and was inducted into the Wisconsin Polka Hall of Fame twice in 1998, as a recipient of both the Lifetime Achievement and the Senior Award.  In 2011 Don was inducted into the International Polka Hall of Fame in the “Pioneer” category for “Significant contributions in the advancement of polka music.”  Also in 2011, Don received a special citation from the Legislature of the State of Wisconsin recognizing his achievements and accomplishments in the music field.  He is listed in The Heritage Registry of Who’s Who.

Beyond his life in music, Don was a proud third-generation grain man and owner and operator of Peachey Bros. Elevator, continuing the family business tradition which has been in operation since 1882.  He was a strong and valued member of the Burnett Area community. Don was a lifelong and faithful member of the Zion Lutheran Church. He was known for his cheerful hospitality and unwavering support for all those around him.

Don will be deeply missed by his son John (Wendy) Peachey of Burnett and daughter Mary Peachey Dittrich of Wilmette, IL; five grandchildren: Jack Dittrich of Burnett, Hannah Dittrich of Winnetka, IL, Michael Dittrich of Wilmette, IL, Sam Dittrich of Savannah, GA and Matthew Dittrich of Madison and his sister Jane (Bob) Shirek of Fond du Lac. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Jane in 1995.

Don and his music touched many lives and leave a legacy of musical memories that will live on.  He dedicated his life and God given talents to making great music and bringing joy to all who he met along the way.

A visitation for Don will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 1225 4th St., Fond du Lac, WI.  A funeral service will begin at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Craig Alwin officiating, followed by a reception at the church. Private family burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in Horicon with Graveside Military Honors conducted by the Horicon American Legion Post #157.

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