Donald "Don" Brockman

A powerful role model of kindness and determination, Donald Brockman brought warmth and laughter into every life he touched. His family was undoubtedly his greatest treasure, and he went above and beyond to care for those around him with humility and compassion. Although life will never be the same without Don here, he leaves behind a precious collection of memories that his loved ones will forever hold close to their hearts.

The early 1930s are remembered as tumultuous years for those living in the United States. The struggles of the Great Depression defined the era, with families all across the nation working hard to find a way to thrive. Amid such a difficult time, however, there was much to celebrate in the household of Herman and Anna (Price) Brockman as their baby boy made his entrance into the world. Born on the family farm in Engadine, Michigan, in the picturesque Upper Peninsula, Donald Harold arrived on August 17th of 1933. Don was delivered at home by a midwife who did not complete and file the needed home delivery paperwork. Because of this, a birth certificate was never issued for Don, and he would later have to go to the Upper Peninsula and file for one when he was in his 50's.

Don grew up as a typical boy of his generation in most ways. He was raised on the family farm in the U.P. alongside his siblings, Ed, Hank, and Marie. Don was especially close with Hank and was often his brother’s shadow. Working on the farm quickly taught Don the value of responsibility and a solid work ethic. The family made a living by raising animals and selling milk. Throughout his formative years, Don received his education at the local one-room schoolhouse and Engadine High School. He was naturally athletic and loved baseball, and he also played basketball in high school. When he graduated from Engadine High in 1951, Don became the first in his family to graduate high school.

At the age of 17, Don took his graduation money of $37, packed a suitcase, and left his childhood home behind to follow his brother, Hank, down to the Kalamazoo area. He began working as an orderly at Kalamazoo State Hospital for a time before returning to the Upper Peninsula to work on the oil pipeline. In 1953, Don was drafted to serve in the United States Army. He spent three years serving in the Airborne division as a paratrooper. Don completed maneuvers in Alaska when it was still just a U.S. territory, before it became a state, and he even learned how to build igloos. Don was honorably discharged in 1955. He took great pride in his years of service to his country. Don returned to Kalamazoo State Hospital, this time working as an officer in the Safety Department.

Don’s life was changed for the better when he met the young woman who would forever hold the key to his heart while working at the hospital. Her name was Carol Katenin, and she was a nursing student on rotation at the time. Carol’s roommate talked her into a double date with Don. Their first date was to see a movie at the State Theater in Kalamazoo, and Don began winning Carol over as their relationship blossomed. Head over heels in love, Don and Carol were married on June 20, 1959, in Carol’s hometown of Flint. After enjoying a honeymoon, the newlyweds celebrated with Don’s family with a second reception in the Upper Peninsula, then settled down in Kalamazoo.

Of all the things Don loved in life, his family was undoubtedly his greatest treasure. He and Carol welcomed their firstborn child, a son named Michael, six weeks premature. Tragically, they lost him in a household accident at just 10 months old, when Carol was three months pregnant with their second child. From the sorrow of such devastation, however, Don and Carol went on to bring their three beloved daughters, Vickie, Judy, and Sandy, into their hearts and home. The Brockman family lived in Westfield for a time, then made their home on Skyline Street in Kalamazoo. Don’s girls were his pride and joy. Over the years, he thrived in his role as a father and provider. Don began working security for General Motors around 1965, standing guard during construction before the plant had even opened. He was able to retire early at the age of 55.

Later in life, Don was thrilled to watch his family grow to include four grandchildren. Affectionately known as “Puckins” by his granddaughter, Hillary, he was a very hands-on grandfather. Don was happy to let the grandkids win at card games and pool, and to tag along for rides on the lawnmover. He was so happy to become a great-grandfather to Liam, who brought so much light into his life. Traveling was one of Don’s favorite ways to spend quality time with his loved ones. He visited family stationed in the military in Okinawa, New Mexico, California, and Florida. He also enjoyed two cruises and a cross-country train trip to California with his wife, Carol.

When Don and Carol moved to the Hudsonville area of MIchigan to be closer to their daughters and their families, Don found his way back to his faith. He attended Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Jenison, and anyone can attest that he lived out his faith in word and deed. In his free time, Don enjoyed spending time in the kitchen, baking sweets and cooking meals. His specialties were deviled eggs, potato salad, and chili. He took meticulous care of his lawn and rose garden. Throughout his life, Don was a skilled woodworker and talented artist. He could copy just about any picture freehand and loved drawing cartoon characters for his family and friends, and he made countless wooden creations over the years. Don liked fishing and deer hunting every fall. A lifelong athlete, he loved racquetball, paddleball, and golf, and he was extremely competitive in card games. Don was known for his wicked sweet tooth, and had to have dessert with every meal. Even as his health declined, Don remained as active and energetic as he possibly could. He was truly happiest when surrounded by his friends and family.

As we gather to honor the vibrant and overflowing life of Donald Brockman, it is easy to see both his unconditional love and his unwavering strength that came from his deeply-rooted faith. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, Don led his family with wisdom and integrity, and his zest for life was insatiable. Already so missed, he leaves behind a priceless legacy of generosity and service that his loved ones will be proud to carry on in his footsteps.

Don was preceded in death by his infant son Michael Donald. Surviving are his wife Carol; daughters Vickie (Bruce) DeSmith, Judy Ruiter, and Sandy Brockman; grandchildren Hillary Beyerlein, Brock (Kenzie) Ruiter, Annie DeSmith, and Abby DeSmith; great grandson Liam Beyerlein; sister Marie Ketvirtis; sister-in-law Linda (Joe) Pelan; brother-in-law George Katenin; and many nieces and nephews.

Please join us for Mass at Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish on October 9, 2026 at 11a.m, visitation will start one hour prior at 10 a.m. The burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Celebrate Don’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.