Donald Waldeck

With heavy hearts and profound love, we celebrate the life of Don Waldeck, who passed away on December 7, 2025, at the age of 72 after fighting a courageous battle. Born in Harper Woods, Michigan, Don entered the world on August 23, 1953, to his parents Howard Paul and Marie Lillian Waldeck, who instilled in him the values of hard work, loyalty, and love, qualities he carried throughout his life.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Don treasured his blended family. He shared 20 years of marriage with Launa Reed, mother of Lissette and Paul, and later built a beautiful life with Joanne. Don was the loving father of Lee (Tiffany) Waldeck, Lissette Gole, Paul (Lauren) Waldeck, Joseph (Laura) Dontje, and Nicole (Matt) Taylor. He was a proud and loving grandpa to ten grandchildren, whose smiles and laughter were a source of endless joy. Don is also survived by his dear sister Barbara Polance; nephews Bryon (Sandy) Vandermeer and Thomas (Colleen) Vandermeer; and many other loving family members and close friends. He also leaves behind his extended family at Colony Marine in Saint Clair Shores, each of whom held a cherished place in his heart for the past 40 years.

Don was the beloved husband and lifelong friend of Joanne Dontje, the love he first met as a teenager. Introduced at just 15 years old, Don and Joanne shared a youthful relationship before life took them in different directions. Thirty-five years later, they found their way back to one another when Don reached out to reconnect. Their renewed love story became a treasure, full of the joy and companionship they were always meant to share. Don lovingly called himself Joanne’s “Tuesday and Friday guy,” a title born from the special time they carved out each week just for each other.

Don found his greatest peace and happiness near the water, fishing, boating, or simply soaking in the warmth of a Michigan summer day. He passed down these passions to his children and grandchildren, where he will live on through those memories. Don treasured time with his family and friends, creating memories marked by laughter, good conversation, and the quiet comfort of being together.

As a young man, Don spent countless hours helping at his family’s well-loved neighborhood restaurant, Cibo Pizzeria, once located at 13 Mile and Hoover in Warren, MI. The community it served, and the work ethic it demanded, shaped Don in lasting ways. Don was a proud graduate of Notre Dame High School, class of 1971, forging friendships and experiences that remained meaningful throughout his life.

Don’s legacy lives on in the stories he shared, the relationships he nurtured, and the love he gave so generously.

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