Donald William Stocker

Donald William Stocker, age 73 of Warren, died Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at Ascension St. John Hospital in Warren. He was born January 27, 1947 in Freeport, Illinois, son of the late William and the late Norma (nee: Stine) Stocker.

The year was 1970 and Donald was a mere 23 years old when his life would take an unexpected turn,…but definitely for the better. It was one magical day, in the Cunningham’s Drugstore in St. Clair Shores, that fate threw open the doors to romance and Donald’s life would never be the same. Though the “romance” wasn’t even recognized on his part at that exact moment,…as the saying goes; “the train had definitely left the station.” It took a simple invitation to a Sergio Mendez concert to win Gloria’s heart, which made their drugstore rendezvous the opportunity of a lifetime. The two lovebirds were married on December 15, 1971, and were blessed to share the next 49 years together enjoying the roles of husband & wife, Mom & Dad, and Grandpa & Grandma.

Donald’s career was centered within the pharmaceutical realm, having worked in both the retail end as well as that in the laboratory sphere. Receiving his Doctorate in Pharmacy, Donald was quite proud of his work and its effect upon the community. He strove to extend the utmost in service excellence in everything he did, and ultimately retired with confidence that he had given all that he had in caring for his fellow man.

Yet for as hard as he worked, Donald also knew how to usher in a bit of balance to it all through the various hobbies and pastimes he enjoyed. Aside from his fascination and love of cars, much of what brought him sweet release was found in his love of the outdoors,…like the joy of fishing. Whether it was casting off a pier, down at an old fishing hole, or while simply trolling in a boat, there was a peacefulness and serenity that accompanied a day of fishing that soothed the soul,…right up until there was a snag on the line, then the fun began!

Hunting was another of his favorite pastimes. Like many Michiganders, each season brought a hopefulness and a dream of what might be,…but for “Dead-Eye Donald,” it was more of a surety as long as he could see his prey. He was a gun lover extraordinaire, and a pretty darn good shot as well. He loved shooting in most all venues,…from targets, to skeet & trap, and of course,…the running targets with antlers atop their noggins. But whether he was hunting, fishing or shooting, Donald simply loved the outdoors and the rejuvenation of breathing fresh air and enjoying all the aspects that accompanied getting back to nature.

A loving husband, father and grandfather, Donald found extreme joy and pleasure in spending time with family and friends, especially his cherished grandchildren. They were the apple of his eye and brought a youthfulness to his spirit that kept him young. He touched a multitude of hearts and souls in his journey through life, and leaves behind a storehouse of wonderful memories to reflect upon by those who were blessed to know him and be loved by him. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.  

Donald was the beloved husband of Gloria. Dear father of Bert (Soraya) Stocker, and loving grandfather of Naomi and Timothy. He also leaves sister, Darla Bleeke.

A Memorial Mass for Donald will take place at 10:00 am on Friday, July 17th at St. Basil the Great Catholic Church, 22851 Lexington Street in Eastpointe, Michigan 48021.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan.

Please share memories of Donald at his guest book below.