God received an angel on October 4th, 2023. Don passed peacefully in his sleep. Donald Francis Rice, Jr. was born in Pittsburgh, PA on June 12, 1947, to Donald Sr. and Antoinette (Sturm) Rice. They moved to Minneapolis when Don was a just a boy, they lived in Chicago for a while and then moved back to MN in 1962. He graduated from Wayzata High School and went to Minneapolis Business College. Don has owned many business over his lifetime, including a clothing store, lawn care, fishing tackle, building maintenance, and Costume Characters.

He was very much a people person, always willing to give as much time and energy to help someone else. He loved to be outside. Fishing and hunting with his buddies was something he always looked forward to. His favorite career was playing Santa Claus, with Jill (Mrs. Claus) and Annissina (Snowflake the Elf). His love for costumes and making kids of all ages smile brought him great joy.

He is survived by his wife, Jill Bierbaum-Rice, of 10 years and his daughter Annissina. Also, his brother Jeff Rice of Hopkins, MN. and many cousins and relatives in PA. Also, two daughters and grandchildren from a previous marriage.

He was a truly selfless person, always smiling and happy to be together. He will be greatly missed.