Donald Miles Zettle

Donald Miles Zettle, Jr., age 60 of Sterling Heights, died Monday, March 7, 2016 at St. John Macomb Hospital in Warren. He was born June 6, 1955 in Detroit, son of Donald Miles, Sr., and the late Gloria (nee: Chiesa) Zettle.Employed as a custodian in the sanitation industry, Donald worked hard to earn his precious time away from the job,…which was often spent boating on the waters of Lake St. Clair. Every state has its own claim to fame when it comes to recreation, but Michigan is one of the few that offers such easy access to some of the most beautiful lakes in the world,…and Donald took advantage of his boating pleasures as often as he could. Little can match the ambiance of floating on the water and letting the cares of the world fall behind in its wake. But Donald enjoyed another notable passion, one that was certainly a "Michigan natural" as well,…and it was enveloped in the world of classic cars. Being the owner of a '69 Chevelle, Donald loved being involved in the circuit of car shows, and was a regular at the infamous & annual Woodward Dream Cruise. Born and raised in the heart of the motor capital of the world, his automotive appreciation ran deep and his loyalty to "American Made" was the blood that ran through his veins. Firing up that iconic Chevy of his never grew old, and Donald derived great enjoyment and pleasure in the throngs of fellow car enthusiasts and friends he interacted with at the many shows throughout the years. But of all the sources of joy he sought, none could hold a candle to the immeasurable elation he felt each moment he got to spend in the company of his grandchildren. They always seem to tug on our hearts the most, and Donald held no exception. The memories they made together were not only treasured, but were also revisited many times within his heart. Yet there was also another precious family member that Donald adored, his canine companion, Gremlin. It's been said that there's something special between "a boy and his dog,"…and Gremlin did a great job of keeping him young. A loving husband, father and grandfather, Donald leaves us far too soon,…but not without leaving a legacy of love that will keep him close with each reflection shared. He touched a multitude of hearts and lives throughout his journey in life; may the impact he imparted be felt and cherished in the memories that are sure to live on in his absence. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.Donald was the beloved husband of Sharon. Dear father of Eric (Christina) Zettle and Shannon Zettle. Son of Donald, the late Gloria, and son-in-law of Mike Hadella. Loving grandfather of Ava Zettle and Bryant Briggs. Brother of Ronnie, Debbie, Kenny, and Susan. Visitation for Donald will be held Thursday, March 10th from 3-9 pm at D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Rd. at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd.) in Warren. He will lie in state on Friday from 9:00 am until time of the Funeral Mass at 9:30 am at St. Blasé Catholic Church in Sterling Heights. Please share memories of Donald at his memory book above.