Donald F. Pierce, age 85, of Chelsea, Michigan, died Friday, April 1, 2022 at his Chelsea home after a brief, courageous battle with cancer.
Don was born December 29, 1936, in Chelsea, Michigan to Elmer W. and Hilda (Wenk) Pierce. He and his sister, Joan E. Kipfmiller, enjoyed growing up in Chelsea, where they have both been lifelong residents.
Don married the love of his life, Donna M. Steeb, on July 7, 1956. They were blessed with three adoring daughters, Kathryn D. Pierce, Cynthia K. Dunlevy, and Karyn S. Zaitonia, who are certain they had the best dad ever!
Don worked as a letter carrier for the U.S. Post Office in Ann Arbor, Michigan for 31 years. He enjoyed being outside while walking his route, and many of his customers became good friends.
Don enjoyed traveling with his wife and daughters. They had several cross country adventures, visiting National Parks, hiking the Grand Canyon, and swimming in the ocean. They also enjoyed their cottage at Houghton Lake, riding snowmobiles in the winter and boating in the summer.
After retiring, Don and his wife spent many winters in Florida. They loved going to the ocean and beachcombing for sand dollars and shells. They also enjoyed spending time with family.
Don is survived by his wife, Donna; children, Kathy, Cindy, and Karyn, grandchildren, Jeff and Jenny, Ali and Pierce, and Kailey; great-granddaughter, Willow; sister, Joan, sister-in-law, Nancy; nieces, Sheryl, Jill, and Kelley; nephews, Dennis, Mark, Kevin, and Chris; and lifelong friend, Ed GreenLeaf. Don was preceded in death by his parents.
Don took excellent care of his family, could fix anything, and never hesitated to reach out and help someone. He will be remembered as a kind, caring, good man and will be greatly missed.
Per Don’s wishes, a small family gathering celebrating his life will be held at a later date.
