Donald "Don" Lee Studt

Donald “Don” Lee Studt of Janesville, WI passed away at his home surrounded by his family on June 1, 2025, at the age of 84. He was born at home in Beloit, WI on March 23, 1941, the son of Carl and Ruth (Osmond) Studt. He grew up in Beloit and graduated from Beloit Memorial High School. He attended a local trade school, where he served an apprenticeship in carpentry.

Don married Sally L. Payne on June 9, 1962, and for the next 63 years, they maintained a supportive and loving marriage, filled with time spent raising their children and grandchildren, camping, and traveling. Yellowstone National Park was always a special place for them to visit.

Don started his career as a cabinetmaker at a local shop in Beloit and then as a carpenter for Wellnitz Builders and Marklein Builders. He quickly evolved into a master trim carpenter, remaining self-employed for the majority of his career. He had a keen eye for detail, ensuring that every cut was precise and every piece fit together seamlessly. At the peak of his career, he was called upon to trim numerous custom homes with intricate trim elements, including cabinetry, spiral staircases, railings, and mantels. He was truly an artist at his trade!

Don will be remembered for his great love for the outdoors, as he was an avid hunter and fisherman; however, his greatest passion was fly fishing. He was a founding member of the Trout Unlimited Blackhawk Chapter (established in 1984), where he volunteered to teach fly-tying classes, provide casting instruction, and raise funds to improve the habitat for trout streams across the state. When teaching students to tie flies, he used to say, “If you can tie your shoes, you can tie flies.” Through Trout Unlimited, Don made lifelong friends and introduced many people to fly tying and fly fishing over the years. He was most proud of introducing the sport to his grandson, Brad. They shared a special bond, which included many trips to the spring creeks of western Wisconsin and out west to the rivers of Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, and New Mexico.

Above all else, Don was a patient, kind, and selfless man who dedicated his life to his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He built three homes for his wife and one for his daughter. He spent countless weekends at his son's home in Langlade County helping with projects. For the last two decades, he took many trips to Trempealeau County to the family’s property, where he enjoyed hunting and watching the land evolve through numerous building, land improvement, and habitat restoration projects. In his final years, he enjoyed morning cups of coffee with his wife, family gatherings, visiting his granddaughter Stefanie’s dogs, and watching his great-grandson’s baseball games.

Donald Studt is survived by his loving wife, Sally; daughter, Vicky Reents; son, Mike Studt; son-in-law, Scott Reents; grandson, Brad (Diana) Reents; granddaughters, Stefanie (Garet) Getchell, Samantha Studt; great-grandchildren, Owen, Emilia, Gavin, Allison; brother, Lanny (Joyce) Studt; sister, Janet McKay. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Bill Studt, and his old hunting dog, Sam.

A special thanks goes to his loving daughter, Vicky, who cherished her dad and cared for him during his final life stages. The family also sends their sincere appreciation to the nurses, CNAs, and staff at Agrace Hospice. The work they do is so difficult and so important. They made a hard time in our lives more peaceful. Thank you for bringing so much compassion and warmth to our family.

A gathering for family and friends will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 pm on Tuesday, June 10th at HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME, 1010 N. Wright Road, Janesville. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace or Blackhawk Trout Unlimited in care of the family. Online condolences are welcome at www.henkeclarson.com.