Remembering Donn Wingate: A Lifelong Passion for Wrestling and Music

Donn Wingate was a true renaissance man, with a deep love for professional wrestling and a passion for music that knew no bounds. His life was a tapestry of shared interests, lasting friendships, and a relentless pursuit of the things that brought him joy. This is the story of a man who left an indelible mark on the lives of those around him, and whose legacy continues to inspire those who knew him best.

Honoring a Lifelong Friendship and a Shared Passion

Discovering a Kindred Spirit

In the late 1980s, Mark Engebretson first crossed paths with Donn Wingate at a Borders Books happy hour in South Minneapolis. Instantly, the two men connected over their shared interests in punk rock, sports, board games, and, most importantly, professional wrestling. Donn, a New Jersey native, was a devoted WWWF fan, while Mark, a Minnesota native, was an AWA enthusiast. Despite their regional differences, the two found common ground in their love for the sport, and a lasting friendship was born.

Immersing Themselves in the Local Wrestling Scene

Soon after their initial meeting, Donn and Mark joined a group that traveled monthly to George's in Fridley to watch Eddie Sharkey's Pro Wrestling America (PWA). This dive bar, just north of the Minneapolis border, became the epicenter of their wrestling fandom, as they witnessed the rise of future stars like the Lightning Kid (Sean Waltman) and Jerry Lynn. The PWA experience was, in Mark's words, "the greatest wrestling experience ever," and Donn quickly became fast friends with many of the wrestlers, including the Lightning Kid and Jerry Lynn.

Bringing Wrestling to the Masses

Inspired by the energy and excitement of the PWA, Donn, along with his friend Donn Searles, and Mark, launched a public access TV show called "The Prima-Donns." Donn and Donn were the hosts, while Mark served as the producer, and a dozen other friends lent their support in various ways. The show celebrated the Minneapolis music scene, often featuring local bands and music supporters, while also showcasing wrestlers and retired wrestlers, including Jerry Lynn, who was one of their first guests.

A Lasting Legacy of Friendship and Shared Passions

Over the course of their 35-year friendship, Donn and Mark shared countless moments of joy and laughter, bonding over their mutual love for wrestling and music. Donn's vast VHS archive of classic wrestling interviews and matches provided endless entertainment, as the two friends would often cap off their nights watching these treasured recordings. Sadly, Donn passed away on September 7, 2024, a day after his 67th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of friendship, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the things that truly mattered in life.

Honoring a Life Well-Lived

Donn Wingate's impact on the lives of those around him was immeasurable. His unwavering passion for professional wrestling and his tireless support of the local music scene in Minneapolis made him a beloved figure in the community. Through his work on "The Prima-Donns" and his countless shared experiences with friends like Mark Engebretson, Donn's legacy lives on, inspiring others to embrace their passions and cherish the connections that make life truly meaningful.