Donald Richard Boelke

Donald Richard Boelke, age 94, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026 in Evans, Georgia. Born on February 19, 1932, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and raised in Sheboygan, he was the son of Gertrude (Hillmer) and Richard Boelke. Don grew up alongside his younger brother, Bill, spending his childhood fishing on Kelly Lake and immersing himself in the Boy Scouts where he proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

Don pursued his studies at Carleton College before earning his medical degree from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. It was during this time that he met his wife, Sabra Blodgett, on a blind date. They raised their three children in the Old Farm neighborhood of Rockville, Maryland, where Don became a deacon of St. Mark Presbyterian church and an integral part of the community. He was a loving and engaged father who wholeheartedly participated in his children’s lives and pursuits.

A dedicated orthopedic surgeon, Don’s practice on Rockville Pike became a familiar and comforting place for neighbors seeking help with broken bones or injuries. He had a genuine interest in his patients and was a respected and well-liked member of the medical community. In 1995 he was awarded Vicennial Medal by Georgetown University Medical School for over 20 years of volunteer service in education.

Don loved fishing, casting his line in waters from the Chesapeake Bay and the Carolinas to lakes in Wisconsin, New York, Minnesota, Colorado, and even Alaska. He took great pleasure in sharing his well‑worn fish photo album, proudly recounting the stories behind each picture. On the final page was his wedding photo and he would earnestly explain that it showed the greatest catch of his lifetime.

Don was known for his friendly nature and his ability to strike up a conversation with anyone. He enjoyed playing card games and was a Life Master bridge player. Family holidays and vacations always included a large table filled with family members playing rummy, hearts, and the ever-popular, raucous game of SPOONS.

In retirement, Don and Sabra settled into the small community of Hendersonville, North Carolina. There, they explored the local hiking trails, became active members of a square dance group, and Don volunteered with Habitat for Humanity. They lived in a beautiful house with seemingly endless mountain views for 12 years before deciding to move closer to family as they progressed in age. Denver, Colorado and an independent retirement community became home for 9 years where Don participated with great enthusiasm as a percussionist with the local band. The most recent years have been in Evans, Georgia.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Sabra, his children Scott Boelke, Paula Munger, and Ellen Boelke (and spouse Laura); his grandchildren Allen, Emily, Katie, Audrey, and Mariah; and his sisters‑in‑law Jane Boelke, Julie Avis, and Connie Blodgett. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Bill.

Platts Funeral Home and Cremation Service is honored to serve the family of Dr. Donald Richard Boelke.