Donald J. Kemme, 90 of Effingham, formerly of Shumway, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026 at Lakeland Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Effingham.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Shumway with burial in St. Mary's Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday at Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham with a Knights of Columbus rosary to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Mary's Parish Hall Building Fund or St. Mary's Cemetery.

Donald was born September 1, 1935 in Effingham, the son of Edward and Louise (Borgic) Kemme. He married Marita C. Kortte on December 28, 1957 and she preceded him in death on March 23, 2025.

Donald was a devoted member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Shumway, where he faithfully served as a church trustee and parish council member. He was also a member of the Effingham Knights of Columbus Council #665. Donald was a lifelong farmer; raising cattle and hogs. He was a strong supporter of the Effingham County Fair and especially enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren show livestock in the 4-H competitions. Donald had a passion for classic country music and enjoyed playing guitar, even performing in a band during his younger years.

Donald is survived by his children, Mark (Karen) Kemme, Paul (Jane) Kemme, Bishop Carl Kemme, Todd (Julie) Kemme, Edward (Leslie) Kemme, and Lucinda (Brian) Herboth; 15 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren; brother, Maurice “Mo” (Rita) Kemme; sisters-in-law, Bonnie Kemme and Verena Kemme.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marita; twin boys at birth; brothers, Bob (Esther) Kemme, Clarence Kemme, and Donald’s twin, Tom Kemme; sisters, Luella (Dick) Roepke, Rosella (Donald) Swingler, Wilma (Leo) Holkenbrink and Dorothy Kemme.

Donald’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Lakeland Rehabilitation and Health Care Center and Transitions Hospice for the compassionate care and kindness shown to him.