Don was born on November 15, 1921, in Detroit, MI. He was the middle son in his family, with brothers Dick and Bill. During World War II, Don was in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Hawaii before duty in the South Pacific. After leaving the army, he met his first wife, Lee. They were married for 33 years, until he lost her to illness. Even though he had no children of his own, Don dearly loved his nieces and nephews: Laura, Larry, and Linda, and their children.
In 1981, when Don met Marion, he asked her if she liked to travel. She replied, "Yes!" He later confided to her that had she said, "No," that would have been their last date! In 1982, Don married Marion Nuznoff, who had four grown children: Lynn, Jim, Lee, and Jill. He later became a grandfather of five grandchildren: Bradley, Matthew, Scott, Raymond, and Tabitha. He treated them with love, kindness, and appreciation for the thirty years in which they were honored to have them as their stepfather and grandfather.
In 1984, Don retired from the Grand Trunk Railroad after 43 years of service. During that time he held many positions, but spent the last 20 years as Director of Labor Relations. After retirement, he continued part time employment as an arbitrator for the railroad. Don and Marion started their travels to Europe, Asia, South America, and to many other locations. They enjoyed numerous trips to Hawaii, where Don loved the ocean waves!
Even after retiring from part-time arbitration duties, Don was still not an idle man. He joined the Lion's Club and was dedicated to collecting money and fund-raising for charities for over 28 years. His most beloved charity is the Penrickton School for Blind Children. He also worked with Meals on Wheels for a number of years, and was still active as a dispatcher for the FISH organization. Don has been a deacon and, until recently, an usher at First Presbyterian Church of Farmington.
Don was an extremely humble man who led by example. He lived life with dignity and integrity. Don accepted people as they were and did not pass judgment on others. In fact, he requested that no one get up and speak of him at his funeral service, which we have honored. We will all remember and cherish him in our own way, and he will be dearly missed by many.

Visitation Friday 3-8 PM at the Thayer-Rock Funeral Home

Funeral Saturday 1 PM (in state after 12 PM) at First Presbyterian Church of Farmington 26165 Farmington Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48334.

Memorials suggested to the Penrickton Center for Blind Children or the church.