Donald Alfred Dumas

Donald Alfred Dumas, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on August 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was the devoted husband of Marilyn for 68 years.

Don was born to Harold and Hilda Dumas and was one of five siblings. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; his children, Donna (Larry), Laura (Bino), and Matthew; his sister, Norma; his brother, Rodger (Mary); his grandchildren, Scott Kaplan (Lindsay), Nicole Shkreli (Paul), Tyler Richard (Aviva), Megan Richard (Adonis), and Cash Dumas (Mikaela); and his great-grandchildren, Easton, Lennon, Mina, Pearce, and Lula. Two more great-grandchildren are expected in the coming year.

Don and Marilyn's story began when they were teenagers. Soon after they met, Don joined the United States Air Force, beginning a three-year courtship through letters and ultimately developing a partnership that would span nearly seven decades. Don proudly served his country for eight years, including time stationed in Labrador. Just months before his passing, Don had the special privilege of participating in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., with Space Coast Honor Flight, accompanied by his grandson, Sgt. Scott Kaplan, who served as his Guardian, and his daughter, Laura Campanini.

A lifelong achiever, Don earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from Wayne State University and became the first person in his family to graduate from college. He went on to build a successful career in industrial relations, labor relations, and human resources, including positions with Federal-Mogul and Williams International.

Don remained active throughout his life and embraced a wide variety of sports and fitness pursuits. Golf was Don's greatest sporting passion. He and Marilyn enjoyed countless rounds and golfing vacations throughout the country. After retiring, Don and Marilyn made their home in Venice, Florida, where he became deeply involved in the Jacaranda West Country Club, serving as club president and club champion. He continued to play actively throughout his life and, remarkably, was still shooting below his age, averaging scores in the high 80s. Golf wasn't simply a game for Don; it was a lifelong pursuit that reflected his determination and discipline and forged countless friendships.

Family was at the center of Don's life. He was a dedicated father who showed his love by being present and involved. He and Marilyn created countless family memories through vacations, camping trips, family outings, and traditions. Those experiences became part of the family story that will continue to be shared for generations.

Don and Marilyn also turned one of the most painful experiences of their lives into a mission to help others. Following the loss of their infant son, Stephen Lees, they helped found the Michigan Association for Sudden Infant Death Study, which contributed to the formation of the National Sudden Infant Death Foundation, bringing awareness to a condition that was then little understood. Their efforts reflected their values of standing up and making a difference for others.

Faith was also an important part of Don's life. He was a lifelong Catholic and, earlier in his life, devoted many years to teaching CCD and working with youth groups. His faith was reflected not only in his involvement with the church, but also in the importance he placed on family, service, and doing what was right.

In 2022, Don and Marilyn moved to Melbourne, Florida, to be closer to family. Don quickly settled into a new golfing group and formed new friendships, including dear friends Ron and Barbara Schule. Even in a new community, he found a way to stay active, connected, and engaged in the things he loved.

Don will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to Marilyn, his love for his family, and a life defined by hard work, service, faith, determination, and countless friendships and memories. His legacy will live on through the generations of family who loved him, and he will be deeply missed.