Donald Lemeron

Donald S. Lemeron 88, of Traverse City peacefully passed away on August 19, 2021, at home with his family by his side.

Don was born on June 20, 1933, to Stephen and Irene (Stutleen) Lemeron in Duck Creek, Wisconsin. Being a proud Wisconsinite, it was natural for Don to be a life-long packer-backer beginning with parking cars at Lambeau Field while in high school.

Shortly after high school Don chose to proudly serve his country in the United States Coast Guard as part of search and rescue as his life’s career. While stationed in Traverse City he met a local gal, Leilani Dawn Allen, who quickly stole his heart. Seven months later, on October 15, 1956, Don and Lani were married at Central United Methodist Church. During their 57 years of marriage, they found themselves stationed all over the United States choosing to be stationed in Traverse City as often as they could and after 28 years of service, they chose Traverse City to be their home.

Once retired Don being one to not sit still found a second career working for Empire National Bank as a courier. He loved his “retirement career” for over ten years. As much as he found joy in working, he found the most joy watching his grandchildren at their various activities.

Don leaves behind five children, Michelle Bonner, Kathy Jo Price, Steven Lemeron, Dawn (Aloysius) Peplinski and Diane (Steven) Denoyer, six grandchildren, Nicole (Charles) Stavinoha, Michael Price, Erica (Matthew) Griffin, Sydney Denoyer, Samantha Denoyer, Adam Peplinski and two great- grandchildren Presley Stavinoha and Nora Griffin and his loving dog, Bella. Don also leaves behind two younger siblings Kenneth Lemeron and Karen (Lemeron) Marks.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Leilani, and his son-in-law Michael Price.

The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at Central United Methodist Church. Family and friends will gather on the sidewalk in front of the church at 222 Cass St at 10:50 am for a possible US Coast Guard Flyover. The funeral service will start at 11:05 am in the church Sanctuary. You can also join the family for a luncheon from 12 pm to 2 pm at the Cherryland VFW.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Hospice of Michigan and The Traverse City VA Clinic for the kindness and awesome care they showed Don.

Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to share your thoughts and more.