A Great Story

Donald Anthony Kuffner, age 78, loving father of two, grandfather of four, and beloved friend to many, passed away peacefully with his children by his side on July 26, 2024.

Born on September 25, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, to Anthony and Stephanie Kuffner, Donald grew up in the Small Farms of Southfield with his siblings Christine and Thomas. He attended St. Michael's Catholic School, where he met his first set of lifelong friends, and then went to Southfield High School, where he met and married Twila Gentry. After graduating, Donald joined the Navy and completed nuclear power training and creating lasting friends rooted in values of faith and service to country. He proudly served on the SARGO, a nuclear submarine.

After completing four years of service to the country, Donald began working for General Motors at the Milford Proving Grounds, dedicating 40 years of service to the company. His service and experiences were recorded in an interview for the Library of Congress, a testament to his impactful life.

Donald is survived by his siblings Christine (Kuffner) Scott and Thomas Kuffner (Vicky); his children Jennifer Poroch (David) and Christopher Kuffner (Maria); and his grandchildren Amanda and Adam Poroch, and Billy and Kennedy Kuffner. He is also remembered by Crystal Scott, Nicole Hansen, and Amber Swarms.

Donald led a life dedicated to family, friends, and faith. He took every opportunity to participate in every aspect of his children's lives. Don held numerous volunteer roles, including summer camp director, baseball coach, Cubmaster, PTA leader, church fun night director, and high school booster club member. Even after a long day of work, followed by evening mechanic work to keep the family cars running, Don never said no to playing catch or kicking the soccer ball around with Jen and Chris. He continued this dedication with his grandkids, always playing with them and supporting their interests in any way possible.

As a friend, Don was ready to lend a helping hand. Whether it was fixing a furnace or air conditioner, helping build a business, renovating an old mill, or ensuring reliable transportation Don never said no to an ask and many times acted simply on impulse. There were very few things Don couldn't fix or find someone who could as a favor to him. Many people sought out Don's endless knowledge and experience.

Growing up Catholic grounded Don with a strong Christian faith that he explored and evolved throughout his life. He never questioned his faith in Christ but always sought to have a closer, personal relationship with Him. After having kids, Don joined a Lutheran church, which aligned with his personal growth. He contributed in many ways to the church, including fixing the boiler late at night, organizing paper drives, leading Sunday morning breakfast events, and participating on the church board. Don demonstrated to his kids and others the importance of serving others in the name of Christ.

Don was a mentor to many. His GM associates frequently commented on how Don helped them run projects, solve problems, and provided career advice. He formally mentored hundreds by teaching night school every Tuesday and Thursday for four years. In every role Don took on, his ultimate reward and joy was helping others find a path forward to a successful life.

Donald's life was one filled with love, friendship, and service. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. In typical Don Kuffner fashion, he chose a party over a funeral service. Don will receive military honors at the Great Lakes National Cemetery on September 20, 2024, with a celebration of life on September 21, 2024.

For those that would like to offer a tribute in Don's memory please consider supporting a local VFW Post, the airport Freedom Center, or Farmington Players theater group.

"People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. People will never forget how you made them feel."  - Maya Angelou

Love you Dad!