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Don Spain

April 15, 1931 - February 27, 2020
Kalamazoo, MI

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At the family's request memorial contributions are to be made to those listed below. Please forward payment directly to the memorial of your choice.

Parkinson's Foundation
Web Site

Flowers


Below is the contact information for a florist recommended by the funeral home.

Ambati
1830 S. Westnedge
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
(269) 349-4961
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Life Story / Obituary


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Donald Earl Spain, age 88, of Kalamazoo, MI and formerly of Adrian and Detroit passed away on Thursday, Feb. 27,2020. He was born April 15, 1931 in Detroit, the son of Earl and Catherine (Carson) Spain. He was a graduate of Oscoda High School in Oscoda, MI and entered the Air Force and served in the Korean War.

He is survived by his wife Dorothy (Libby) Spain of 64 years of marriage and five children Audrey Spain, Jeffery (Melanie) Spain, David (Jill) Spain, Marlene Hood and Carol (Tim) Campbell. He is also survived by eleven grandchildren that affectionately called him Pappa, three great grandchildren and his sister Dorothy (Gordon) Birdsey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Evelyn Rodgers.

Don was a man of select interests, but many talents. His love for his family was paramount and it showed throughout his life. Although he had several sayings (aka Don-ism’s) that his children found entertaining, he was not one for eloquent speeches and let his actions speak for themselves. Loving his family, treating others with respect and practicing his Catholic faith are his greatest legacy.

Don started his family (1950-60s) in Detroit before moving to the quiet town of Adrian, MI in 1970, where all five children graduated high school and were very active in sports and school activities. He frequently said that moving to Adrian was one of the best things that ever happened to his family, as it provided opportunities both personally and professionally. Don was a lifelong “insurance man”, working for Prudential Life in the early days before joining Kapnick & Co. in Adrian. He took great pride in bringing new commercial business and played a key role to an emerging agency that now employs 160+ people and has three offices throughout Michigan.

He was a special man in so many ways and will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

At Don’s request, cremation has taken place. There will be a Celebration of Life held for family and friends sometime this spring or early summer. You may send condolences to the family at https://betzlerlifestory.com In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation. https://www.parkinson.org