Donald Frederick Stein

Donald Frederick Stein
May 23, 1940 – March 23, 2026
Donald Frederick Stein, age 85, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family, on March 23, 2026.
Don was born and raised in Pigeon, Michigan, where he grew up on his grandparents’ farm. He spent much of his early life as a farmer, developing a deep appreciation for the land and the outdoors that remained with him throughout his life. In the early 1980s, he moved to Clarkston, Michigan, where he worked at Bordine’s for nearly 25 years before retiring. He later made his home in Waterford, Michigan. Never one to stay idle, Don worked for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources as a park ranger until his station closed.

Don was the beloved husband of Sally and a devoted father to his daughter, Heather (Ron) Stritzinger, and his son Donald “Donnie” Stein. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Morgan, who brought him great joy.

He is survived by his sisters-in-law, Marylou McGillivray and Judy Bennett; his brother-in-law, Douglas (Carol) Bennett; and many extended family members and friends, including many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Patricia Bennett, his brothers-in-law, Ron McGillivray and Bert Bennett. He was also preceded in death by his father-in-law, Albert Bennett; his mother, Florence Stein; and his grandparents, George William Stein and Bertha Stein, who lovingly raised him.

Don had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed planting trees, gardening, and spending time in nature. He also enjoyed horse racing, watching the stock market and "occasionally" playing the lottery. He especially loved sharing his passion for gardening by giving plants to others and sharing vegetables from his garden. More than anything, he valued time spent with others, talking with neighbors, lending a helping hand, and being someone people could rely on. He was known as a great listener, a loyal friend, and a steady presence in the lives of those who knew him. He will also be remembered for his famously quick exits, often saying, “When it’s time to go, it’s time to go.”
He will be deeply missed, but his love of the outdoors and the many lives he touched will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Even now, the seeds he planted-both in the earth and in the lives of others-will continue to grow for years to come.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 5987 Williams Lake Road, Waterford, Michigan 48329.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations may be made to Christ Lutheran Church (memo: “Pastor’s Discretionary Fund”) in Donald’s memory, continuing his legacy of caring for others by helping feed those in need and supporting neighbors facing hardship.

Don's final resting place will be at Grand Lawn Cemetery in Pigeon, Michigan, where he will be laid to rest at a later date, near the place he first called home.