Born on March 7, 1928, just before the Great Depression, Don grew up in Detroit, Michigan, where he and his brother Ted spent their early years working alongside their father at the family’s bindery. From a young age, Don learned the value of hard work and precision as they bound printed materials sent from across the country. What started as childhood chores grew into a full-fledged career, and as adults, Don and Ted became partners in the family business, eventually taking over and running Standard Bindery Incorporated. Don remained at the helm until his retirement in 1982, when he finally stepped back to enjoy the life he had worked so hard to build.
On June 23, 1951, Don married Mary, the love of his life. They were married for 71 remarkable years and were truly inseparable. That same year, Don was deployed to Korea, serving as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army. While overseas, he received word that their first daughter had been born. After returning home, Don and Mary went on to raise five more children—each of whom he loved deeply and uniquely.
Family was the center of Don’s world. He took great joy in taking his family on vacation. His vacations to Ireland and Great Britain were especially dear to his heart because he visited them with his wife, Mary. At home or abroad, Don was happiest surrounded by the people he loved. Whether it was fishing, golfing, or taking long walks with Mary, Don cherished the outdoors. At the card table, Don and Mary were a formidable bridge duo. They played together for over six decades, often in duplicate tournaments, and in his last two years, Don found fresh joy in playing bridge weekly with his children.
Don’s dedication, presence, and love made him a respected husband, father, and friend. He will be missed beyond measure and remembered with deep gratitude.
Don is welcomed into heaven by his treasured wife, Mary, and beloved daughter, Laura Abeli. He is survived by his adored children; Donna (Dwight) Van Steenkiste, Tom Schultz (Dawn Smith), Sarah (Mike) Julien, Martha (Barry) Brang, Margaret Todd Raleigh, and son-in-law, Mike Abeli. He is also survived by 17 cherished grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and 1 future great-grandchild.
Memorial contributions in Don's honor may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, or St Jude Children's Research Hospital.
