Don was born in Lansing in 1953 to Donald Edward Dunham Sr. and Bettie Jean Dunham. He graduated from Everett High School and Lansing Community College. He served and protected his community as an officer with the Lansing Police Department (LPD) for 28 years. During his time with LPD, he worked as a patrol officer, rode a motorcycle, proudly served as a K-9 handler with his partner, Radar, and later worked as a detective.
After retiring from LPD, Don continued his law enforcement career for nearly 20 years with the Michigan House of Representatives Sergeant at Arms Police Agency, where he retired as deputy chief.
Don cherished time with his friends and family, especially his grandchildren. He looked forward to the annual summer lake trip with his immediate family and to playtime with all the toys at Grandpa Don and Grandma Moe’s house. He also enjoyed many rounds of golf with his buddies, children, grandchildren, and extended family. In earlier years, he found joy in motorcycle trips, ski trips, and other adventures with close friends.
Don was preceded in death by his mother, Bettie; his stepfather, Jack Pylman; his father, Donald Sr.; and many beloved aunts, uncles, and other family members.
He is survived by his wife, Maureen; his sister, Diana (Douglas); his half-brother, Thomas; his children, Paul (Michelle), Joshua (Joslyn), and Jennifer (Isaac); and his grandchildren, Jacob, Mason, Caleb, Lucas, Avery, and Layla.
A funeral service for Don will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026 at 11:00 AM, with a one-hour prior visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, at Gorsline Runciman East Chapel, 1730 E Grand River Ave., East Lansing, MI 48823. Following the funeral service, the family invites you to join them for a reception at the funeral home. There will be no cemetery services following.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Don and Maureen’s favorite organization, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at https://www.stjude.org/
