Donald John Desmet

Donald John Desmet, age 94, of Highland, passed away Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor. Left to cherish his memory are his children: Carol (Forrest) Callahan, and Michael (Maria) Desmet; his three grandchildren: Kirk (Suzanne Reeves) Clyne, Ryan Callahan, and Logan Desmet; his partner of ten years, Vivan Phillips; and many loving nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Donald was born June 3, 1927, in Detroit, the son of Mr. & Mrs. Richard and Helen (Lauwers) Desmet.

Donald proudly served his country in the United States Army in the aftermath of the Second World War from 1945 until 1947. Stationed in Belgium, Donald spent his time in the service working as a lineman, repairing telephone and telegraphs damaged during the war. It was during his deployment that he met his wife Angele, and they would go on to spend sixty-one wonderful years until her death in 2009. Upon his discharge from the Army, Donald and Angele returned to the United States. Don began his career at General Motors in 1953, where he worked as a supervisor for thirty years until his retirement in 1982.

In his free time, Don could be found playing a round of golf, going fishing, or going dancing. He loved to play the accordion; and even spent his free time playing and singing for the residents at a local retirement community. Donald stayed active until the very end of his life; and even walked the Mackinaw Bridge at the age of ninety! Donald had a great sense of humor, and will always be remembered by his family and friends for his jokes! Most of all, Don will be remembered for his kindness and generosity. He knew no strangers, and his garage door was always open to his neighbors, who enjoyed spending the afternoons there sharing stories with Don over a cold drink. He was a wonderful man who will be dearly missed.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Helen; his loving wife, Angele Desmet; his brother, Walt Desmet; and his sister, Shirley Desmet.

In accordance with Donald’s wishes, cremation will take place. A memorial visitation will take place on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, from 3:00pm until 8:00pm at the Highland Chapel of the Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, 3295 E. Highland Road, Highland, 48356. A prayer service will take place at 4:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may consider memorial contributions to Operation Underground Railroad.