Donald Jay Wabaunasee, 64, of Phoenix, AZ and formerly of Tama, passed away, April 22, 2026 at his home due to natural causes. A Traditional Wake will be held Thursday, April 30, 2026 at the Bear Clan Ceremonial Building on the Meskwaki Settlement, rural Tama. A Traditional Graveside Service will be held Friday, May 1, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the McIntosh Cemetery on the Meskwaki Settlement, rural Tama.

Donald was born on September 27, 1961, in St. Louis, MO, the son of Judie Wabaunasee and Flora Jefferson. He was raised on the Meskwaki Settlement.

He graduated from Fort Sill Indian School in OK.

Donald served his county in the U.S. Army in the 82nd Airborne Division.

Donald worked as a landscaper. He enjoyed sports, hunting, fishing, and spending time outside.

Survivors include his twin brother, Daniel (Waskonas) Wabaunasee; brothers, Alvin Wildcat, Deron (Shirley) Ward, and Gilbert Brown; sisters, Kay Waseskuk and Jackie Lasley Ferneau; children, Sally and Shyla Wabaunasee; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two brothers, Bryan Wabaunasee, and Dallas Wabaunasee; and three sisters, Rhonda Pushetonequa, Julie Sanache, and Shirley Sanache.