Don was a veteran serving our country in the US Army in the Korean Conflict. He married Maryann (Hall) on July 31, 1953. Don was a lifelong resident of Kalkaska and retired from J & T Contracting in 1993. He enjoyed playing pool and putting jigsaw puzzles together. His grandchildren were a huge part of his life. Don also had a great love for his family. Don was a member of the VFW Post 8684 and the Senior Center.

Surviving Don are the children, Joyce A. (David) Buckler, Eileen K. (John) Bilkey and Michael D. Root all of Kalkaska; his grandchildren, Josh, Bryan, Tiffany, Kaysha, Logan, Gena and Keenan; and five great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Marilyn Watkins and Bonnie Watkins both of Kalkaska; and dear friend, Jim MacKeller of Kalkaska. Don was preceded in death by his wife, Maryann; and his sons, Jerry and Allen.

Visitation was held on Sunday, Jan. 13, at the Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home. The funeral was on Monday, at the funeral home, with Reverend Roger Numerich officiating from the Peoples Church. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery.

Memorials may be given in behalf of Don to the Commission on Aging, PO Box 28, Kalkaska, Mich., 49646.

Arrangements were made by Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home.