Don Lund

LUND

Posted By: Lisa Ciha (email)
Date: 4/28/2023 at 10:56:16

Don Lund, a man with a zest for life, and an infectious laugh that could brighten up even the dullest days, passed away on April 11, 2023.

Don was an avid sports writer for the Iowa Hawkeyes, and his obituary would be incomplete without mentioning his incredible achievements in the field of sports. But let's not forget the fact that he was born without hands or feet, which only made him more special.

Don's parents, Wayne and Marjorie Lund, raised him with unconditional love, and Don never let his disability hold him back. In fact, he was so mobile that he was just as rambunctious as any other toddler. He was fitted with peg legs and hooks, and he soon mastered the prosthetic devices.

Don's spirit and independence were evident from a young age. He refused to let his disability define him and became an inspiration to many. He even had a Kruckenberg procedure, which gave him two "fingers" that he could pinch together, which made him even more self-sufficient.
Don's love for sports began at a young age, and he quickly became an integral part of the Neustrom family. He was introduced to his greatest passion - the Iowa Hawkeyes - by the family. Don was involved in organized sports, including baseball, football, and wrestling, where he competed among other athletes.

Don was a college wrestler at Iowa Lakes Community College in Estherville, IA, before transferring to the University of Iowa, where he landed a part-time job with the football team. Unfortunately, Don struggled with depression and drug use, but he persevered and went back to college, graduating with a degree in Communications and Arts.

Don worked for Amway, and every Christmas, his nieces and nephew received trial toothpaste and bars of soap. In the late 1980s, Don was hired by the Solon Economist Newspaper to cover the Iowa Hawkeyes - his dream job. Although there was no budget to pay him, he was happy to cover the Hawkeyes for a few bucks and a press pass. His last story was filed the week before his death.

Don’s passion helped give his voice arms and legs when it came for speaking and fighting for what was right. He volunteered and held the role as President of the Golfview Resident’s Association, fighting to keep fair prices and affordable housing for all. Don was a longtime friend of Club 76 The Lodge and The American Legion Post 1976.

Don will be remembered for his infectious personality, his love for sports, and his ability to inspire others. He is survived by his two brothers, Robert and Arne Lund, his nieces and nephews, and grand-nieces.

Don's services are pending at this time, but we know that he would have wanted us to celebrate his life with a game of knee football or a friendly wrestling match.

A celebration of life to remember and honor Don will be held at the Gay and Ciha Funeral Home in Iowa City on June 2 from 10 a.m. to Noon. Also, friends of Don plan to hold a Memorial for him at the North Liberty American Legion on May 20, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Rest in peace, Don.

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