Donald Jack Buning

Donald Buning, age 90, went to be with his Lord Tuesday, April 11, 2023. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Tressa Buning. He will be forever loved and remembered by his wife, Eunice Buning; children David (Suzanne) Buning, Douglas (Kathy) Buning, Daniel (Beth) Buning, and Rebecca (David) Purnell; grandchildren Jamie Buning, Julie (Mike) Jackyra, Steven Buning, Lisa (Mike) Wadley, Kim Buning, Jen (Matt) Lira, Hannah (Brent) Zinn, Kinsey (Trace) Deemter, Leah Buning, Anna Kremer, and Ellyn Purnell; nine great-grandchildren; brother, Albert (Karon) Buning; several nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Donald graduated from Ottawa Hills High School and went on to college, but his education was paused to serve in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. Upon returning from being stationed in Japan, Don earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from Western Michigan University. He began his career in Grandville Schools, teaching industrial arts and then sixth grade. Don became the principal of Stoney Creek Elementary School in Comstock Park and then at Pinewood Elementary School in Jenison.

Don loved his years as a teacher and an administrator, making sure all of the students and staff he served felt seen and heard, but his most cherished roles were that of husband, father, and grandfather. Don could tell a story like no one else, but he also encouraged others to share their own stories by being a very attentive listener. He enjoyed nothing better than sitting around the table reminiscing, predicting the weather, discussing world events, and hearing about what his kids and grandkids were doing. Don taught us that we should never take life for granted; there were always new places to be explored, new foods to try, and new people to meet. Don led with curiosity and had the unique ability to allow people to be fully themselves around him. Later in life, he and his wife, Eunice, enjoyed many wonderful years of retirement, traveling, visiting grandkids, and spending winters in Leesburg, FL with friends who became like family.

Visitation with friends and relatives will take place from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday, April 23, 2023 at Cook Funeral Home (West building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. A memorial celebration of Donald’s life will be held 2 p.m. Monday, April 24, 2023 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East building). Pastor Howard Moths of Rosewood Reformed Church will be officiating. In honor of Donald and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation. Interment will be at a later date in Fort Custer National Cemetery. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresgrandville.com.