Age 72

Loving husband of Donna for 55 years. Beloved father of Cheryl (Gregory) Solovey. Grandfather of Cara & Christa. Don was a strongly family oriented man who always put the needs of his wife, daughter, and granddaughters first. He worked loyally for General Motors for 38 years to support his family. He was a generous man and very giving to the people he loved. Don was a great son-in-law to Ethel Lavey and took her on all of their family vacations. They'd spend their time Up North playing cards, until Don could finally win a game. He even grew to love his son-in-law, Greg, although he was not his first choice initially. Now, however, he would not trade him for all of the money in the world.

If you ever met Don, you would never forget him. Don was an authority on everything because he never stopped talking. Although his family could never get a word in, they loved him dearly. Don enjoyed spending time fishing on the lake Up North. Everyone assumed he was doing more drinking and sleeping than fishing, but he always came back with a catch. Don loved his dog, Big Boy, who was his loyal companion for years. Don's competitive spirit could make him a poor sport when he lost in golf and bowling. However, this same competitive spirit lead him to excel in high school baseball and was scouted by the Detroit Tigers. Instead of pursing a career in baseball, he married Donna and took on the role of husband and father. In more recent years, Don spent his time watching TV and particularly enjoy shows about the Old West and cooking.

Don was deeply loved by his family and friends and will be truly missed.

Visitation Friday 5-8pm with an evening Scripture Service. Funeral Service Saturday 11:30am at the John N. Santeiu & Son Funeral Home, 1139 Inkster Rd., Garden City. (Between Ford Rd. and Cherry Hill.)

Family suggests memorials to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.