Donald Lee Tufts

Donald Lee Tufts, age 74, of Muskegon, passed away peacefully at home on April 18, 2025. Born on March 9, 1951, to Thomas and Jeannette (Kotlewski) Tufts, Don was a lifelong resident of Muskegon who lived a life full of hard work, love for the outdoors, and devotion to his family.

A 1969 graduate of Muskegon Catholic Central, Don went on to complete a millwright apprenticeship at Muskegon Community College. He spent many dedicated years working as a millwright, first at CWC Textron and later at Howmet Aerospace, until his retirement.

On July 3, 1999, Don married the former Denise Thomspon (Bumstead), and together they shared 25 years of love and partnership.

Don is survived by his wife, Denise; his children, Andrew (Tonya) Tufts and Michelle (Chet Coleman) Alvarez both of Muskegon; stepchildren, Terry Thompson of Montague, Aimee Thompson of Rothbury, Nick (Jenna) Brewer of Buffalo, NY, and Cheryl Gillespie of Owosso; his sister, Cathi (Warren) Vanderwell of St. Augustine, FL; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

An avid outdoorsman, Don found peace and happiness in nature. In his younger years, he spent countless hours fishing on Lake Michigan aboard his beloved boat, The Pabst Man, and deer hunting with family in Brethren, MI. In more recent years, he enjoyed hunting on his home property and fishing for bluegill on White Lake.

In keeping with Don’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. Instead, the family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate Don’s life at a fish fry held in his honor on Saturday, May 3rd, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Muskegon Bowmen Archery Club located at 2380 Central Rd., Muskegon, MI 49445.