Donald W. Bjerke, 76, formerly of East Moline, passed away on Tuesday October 15, 2019 in Acworth, GA. Visitation will be from 11 AM until 1 PM Thursday, October 24, 2019 at Van Hoe Funeral Home Ltd, East Moline with graveside services to follow at 1:30 PM at Rock Island National Cemetery, where the Moline American Legion Post 246 will conduct Military Honors. Don was born June 15, 1943 in Rock Island, the son of Elmer and Geraldine (Doerres) Bjerke. He married his best friend and partner, Thora Mercer on November 28, 1994. She passed away October 13, 2013.

Don graduated from Moline High School, and proudly served in the Army from 1962 to 1965 as U.S. Army Paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division. He retired from John Deere after 23 years, and then worked for the U S Army of Defense as Production Manager (Smart Ammunitions) for 20 years, to continue his service to his country.

Survivors include his children; Charlene Pfab, Acworth, GA and Ericka (Robert) Catterton, Moline, two stepsons Mark and Kyle Mercer of Naples, Fl ; five grandchildren; Meaghan Pfab Connolly, Courtney Pfab, Jacob Pfab, Kyle Phillips and Jenna Phillips;  two great- grandchildren; Reagan Connolly and Rylee Connolly; siblings; Robert (Judy) Bjerke, Peoria, Nancy (Robert) Yantes, Pottsboro, TX.

Don's final words to his family and friends is "Rejoice and have a beer. I had a great life!"

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vanhoe.com

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Thursday, October 24, 2019 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Van Hoe Funeral Home 1500 Sixth Street East Moline, Illinois 61244

Thursday, October 24, 2019 1:30 PM

Rock Island National Cemetery Rock Island Arsenal Island Rock Island, Illinois 61201