Donald Robert Frayer

Departed this life on November 19, 2010, peacefully and surrounded by his family, he was 81. Born in Pontiac MI, he was the son of the late Robert and Gertrude Frayer long time owners of Frayer`s Appliances in Pontiac MI. At the time of his death he resided in Sonoma, CA. where he was known to many as "Gramps", "The Hot Dog Man on Broadway", and "MacArthur". Don grew up during the depression in Pontiac and in his opinion nobody could of had a happier childhood or a better place to live. He loved to work even as a kid, shoveling driveways, raking leaves, sweeping the corner grocery store, stocking shelves, he took great pride always being able to find a job and doing that job well. He attended Pontiac High School were he played football and hooky, he was also a talented Golden Gloves Boxer. Don married his first and only love Shirley Reid after High School. They were married at The First Congregational Church of Pontiac where they remained members until their move to Sonoma. Don and Shirley soon started their family and he started the first of many businesses Butch`s Drive - In. His true calling came when working for his parents at the appliance store. It was apparent Don was a salesman. He was a regional sales rep for Crown Appliances and Pioneer Furniture. He owned Don Frayer`s Home Furnishings, Don Frayer`s Upholstery a business both his sons learned and carry on in their own shops. Don was the advertising sales director for the Pontiac Times newspaper. He worked for Kirby vacuums eventually becoming a regional sales manager. He started Savings Today coupon books with his brother Clarence in Florida and then moved with that and his wife Shirley to Sonoma 25 years ago. There were many sidelines along the way including training and managing amateur and professional boxers, a passion of his. Don also loved to cook and entertain, he was the life of any party. His last business Gramp`s Coney Island Hot Dogs brought him full circle back to Butch`s and hot dogs. He loved hanging on the corner, feeding and meeting the people of Sonoma. A stroke sidelined him 10 years ago but he never lost his great spirit and sense of humor. Don is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 62 years Shirley. He was the best of fathers to daughters Cathy Frayer of Sonoma, and Carol (Dave) Shemanski of Coeur d Alene ID., his sons Robert Frayer and his partner Gary Partridge, and John Frayer of Sonoma. Don will also be missed by his brothers Clarence (Susan) Frayer, Leon (Nancy) Frayer and sister Linda (Don) Fraser all of Sarasota FL. He was the loving grandfather of Michael (Jamie) Kassarjian, Jackie (Josh) Hill, Joe Shemanski and Mallory Frayer; and the great grandfather of Logan and Mason Kassarjian and Sophia and Michael Hill. Also his friend and caregiver Chand Kumar. Don leaves behind many friends, unforgettable stories and treasured memories filled with laughter and love and absolutely no regrets. Cremation has taken place by Duggans Mission Chapel and a gathering will be held at a later date. At this time of year and all through the year the family asks that you think of your neighbors in need and contribute what you can to Fish , Meals on Wheels or any local food bank.