Don Lampen

Don Lampen didn't beat around the bush. He told it like it was, and for the most part, did so in a respectful, caring manner. He cared for and loved his family beyond compare, and with quiet strength. For 30 years, he served in law enforcement for which he was ever dedicated. A special man in the hearts of many, he made a difference in the lives he touched and will be deeply missed.

A time of mixed blessings, 1943 publications of The Saturday Evening Post and box office hits like Casablanca brought a sense of optimism to American households. It also gave the nation a feeling of normalcy during the tumultuous times of World War II. Although the Great Depression was officially declared over, citizens continued to make sacrifices in their daily lives in more ways than one as the U.S. government instituted the withholding tax on wages. Amidst these ever changing times, a most blessed occasion took place in the lives of Herbert and Marie (Weaver) Lampen when on May 5, 1943 they celebrated the birth of their first child, a son they named Donald.

Born in the Michigan city of Three Rivers, the area was home to Don for the first year of his life. His father worked as a welder in a defense plant where they made submarine engines, and before long his family packed up and moved northwest to Diamond Springs, a rural community also in Allegan County. His mother remained at home with Don and his sister, Jane, who was four years younger.

Don's parents bought a general purpose farm in Diamond Springs where they made their home. His father was glad to be rid of his plant job because the physical labor and strain would have indeed killed him over time. Don attended a one room schoolhouse and enjoyed many boyhood adventures. He loved to hunt and fish, and often took his dog to hunt mice and woodchucks. In high school he ran track, but school and studies were not a good mix for Don. He did, however, graduate from Allegan High School with the Class of 1961.

After high school, Don worked several years in tree service and logging. With his love for the outdoors, he appreciated working outside, just as he had done on his family farm. Over time he had two children from a previous marriage, and afterward decided to further his education. He attended Lake Michigan College in Benton Harbor and went on to earn his law enforcement certificate, graduating in 1979. Don began his new career working as an Animal Control Officer for Allegan County before working the road as a County Deputy. He liked working for the Sheriff's Department, especially since he met the woman of his dreams there.

Judy stole Don's heart and the feeling was quite mutual. They began dating and soon romance developed into a marriage proposal. On October 20, 1984, Don and Judy became husband and wife in Alamosa, Colorado, the beginning of 29 wonderful years together. They began their new life together by moving to Alamosa. Short lived, they only stayed for eight months upon realizing how important it was to be near both of their families and returned to Michigan.

Back in Allegan County, Don and Judy blended their families. It wasn't without its share of challenges, but they did well together in this area. Don went to work for the Lawton Police Department and soon bought a home in the area, as well. They lived there for seven years before moving to their current home in Paw Paw.

After retiring from the Lawton police force, Don took a job with the Van Buren County Jail transporting inmates and providing courtroom security. He eventually retired in 2003. At that point, Don decided to stay at home and made a wonderful house husband while Judy continued to work at KPS as a dispatcher. He was a great cook and loved trying new recipes found in magazines, and they usually turned out pretty good.

Don continued his lifelong love of deer hunting and fishing, yet never traveled due to his poor health. With their five dog and cat "babies" at home to care for, it was next to impossible, anyway. At home he loved working in the yard and landscaping with flowers. He was very particular about the way it looked and had to mow it, just so. He usually went on a daily cruise around the block just to get out for a bit, but nonetheless preferred the comforts of home. One of his greatest talents included woodworking. Don carved everything from decoys to rocking horses, birds and more. A big Detroit Tiger fan, Don never went to an actual game but decided he could see the games played on TV better at home. He liked gospel music, and had a quiet faith for the Lord.

Throughout Don's life he placed the needs of his wife and children before his own. He was a great dad, and not only taught his children valuable lessons in life, but gave his time to them, teaching them how to drive and hunt. He was always doing something for his kids, and was always there for them. They hold many fond memories of their Dad, but one especially depicted their Dad to a tee. That very memory includes the day he shot a coyote straight from the kitchen window on Christmas Eve – and it was totally Don all the way!

Although Don could be quite blunt and told it like it was, he never intentionally hurt anyone or seemed shallow. He was a matter-of-fact kind of fellow who made an impact in the lives of many. He never asked for help from anyone, never wanting to impose, yet was always there for others when needed. Those were the very things about Don that made him truly special in his own, unique way. And it is the way in which he will be forever remembered.

A short, bald yet handsome man, Don was very loving and devoted to his beloved, Judy. They enjoyed just spending time together, no matter what they were doing. He recently finished the interior of their pole building for Judy where she was setting up her quilting area and "home away from home" when Don suddenly collapsed and died with Judy by his side.

At the age of 69, Donald C. Lampen died on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at home. A Memorial Service celebrating Don's life will be held Friday, August 3, 2012, 11AM at Monterey Center United Methodist Church, 3022 130th Avenue in Hopkins. He was preceded in death by his dad, Herbert Lampen, and is survived by his wife of 29 years, Judy; four children: Richard (Lori) Lampen, Amy (Chip) Kietzmann, Jennifer Lampros, and Melisa (Steve) Lautenschleger; six grandchildren: Kaylynn, John, Samuel, Josh, Taylor, and Cameron; his mother, Marie Lampen; sister, Jane (Bob) Ashby; several cousins, nieces, nephews, and five furry friends: Angel, Sophie, Zoee, Charlie, and Elliott. Please visit Don’s personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com to submit a favorite memory, photo and to sign his online memory book. Memorial donations may be made to Camp Beechpoint-Allegan County.