Donald B. Gilliain

Donald B. Gilliain obituary

Donald B. Gilliain

Donald Gilliain Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Memorial Alternatives on Oct. 1, 2025.

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Donald Bruce Gillain, 79, of Clinton Township, Michigan, passed away on September 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of public service.

Born on July 29, 1946 in Illinois, Don moved several times throughout the Midwest as a child before finding his home in Michigan. He graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, where he served as president of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

Don enlisted in the U.S. Army he and served during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of First Lieutenant. After returning home, he pursued his law degree at Wayne State University Law School, beginning what would become a distinguished career at the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office.

Throughout his life, Don remained committed to community service-as a union representative for county employees at UAW Local 412, advocating for his colleagues; as a member of the VFW, maintaining bonds with fellow veterans; and as a 50-year member of the Macomb County Bar Association.

Don's detail-oriented nature and patient disposition served him well in his hobbies. He was an avid golfer, a gardener, and a crossword puzzler who relished a daily challenge. Don also enjoyed spending time with his lunch bunch and the crew at table 7.

Don was preceded in death by his wife Laura Gillain and later by his partner Janet Ceuter.

He is survived by his son, Matt (Megan) Gillain, and grandchildren Nathaniel and Caroline; his daughter, Stephanie (Jen) Brady, and grandchildren Jayden and Daniel. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and remembered as a man who made the world a little better for those around him.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald B. Gilliain, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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