Donald Raymond Wesely, 70, of Lincoln, passed away on March 18, 2025. He served 20 years as a Nebraska State Senator before becoming Lincoln’s mayor in 1999. He continued his work in public policy as Senior Vice President at Lindsay Harr Macdonald.
A devoted father, grandfather, and partner, Wesely was known for his compassion, integrity, and thoughtful conversations. He cared deeply for Lincoln and Nebraska, leaving a lasting impact both professionally and personally.
He is survived by his life partner, Michele Casanova; children, Ashton, Andrew (Jane Hartig), and Sarah (Jay Steinkruger); and grandchildren, Ezra and Evie Wesely Steinkruger.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025, at First-Plymouth Church, 2000 D Street, Lincoln. Private family graveside service.
Memorials to Lux Center for the Arts.
Memorial Service
1:00 pm
First-Plymouth Church
2000 D Street, Lincoln
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Don Wesely was and very nice man and accomplished many things in his career, but what I liked best about Don when he was your friend he was your friend. Not many people in todays world are like that anymore
– Tom Richards Papillion Ne
Don and I were classmates at LNE high school both class of 1972. Rest In Peace Don.
– DJ Hogan
I knew Don from Northeast High School, graduating in 1972, next time we met was at Goodyear time clock in 1974, he was greeting each employee and as king for their vote, and it worked, he became one of the youngest State Senators in Nebraska history. His hard work translated into productive legislation, and he helped all of us, plus his work and family will be his greatest legacy, I’ll miss him.
– Scott D Bergfeld MD MPH
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