07/13/2026
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Donald Baumgartner, one of Milwaukee’s greatest champions of the arts and a foundational pillar of the Florentine Opera family.
Donald’s visionary leadership spanned decades, serving as a dedicated board leader and Life Director. In 2017, he and his wife, Donna, made a landmark gift to formally name and endow the Baumgartner Studio Artist Program. Because of their generosity, numerous exceptional young singers and pianists from across the country have received the training, coaching, and mainstage opportunities needed to launch their careers.
Donald’s passion for supporting these young performers was unmatched. Just recently, we were so blessed to have him with us at our beloved Pasta & Puccini event. It was a beautiful full-circle moment as Donald watched two wonderful Baumgartner Studio Artist alumni, Emily and Leroy, take the stage and share their incredible talents.
As the Studio Artist program heads into its 19th season, Donald’s vision lives on in every artist we welcome and every performance we share. We are profoundly grateful for his decades of leadership, his warmth, and his enduring legacy. Our thoughts are with Donna and the entire Baumgartner family. He will be deeply missed.
