Donald E. Hafer

Donald E. Hafer, 95, of Coloma, passed away peacefully on Sept. 29, 2025, at home with his daughter Diane at his bedside.

Per Don's wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned. Memorial donations in Don's memory may be made to Paws of Hope in Stevensville or to the family at Honor Credit Union to cover medical expenses.

Don was born Aug. 13, 1930 in Benton Harbor to Everett V. Hafer and Helen B. (Charleston) Hafer. Following high school, he was drafted into the Air Force during the Korean War era, where he received the Air Force Commendation Medal. Later, he was employed by Whirlpool for more than 38 years, until retirement. Following retirement, Don was a member of the Coloma Lions Club, becoming vice district governor in 1998, district governor in 1999 and Melvin Jones Fellow in 2005. Don also held many volunteer positions with the Mendel Center, Southwest Michigan Economics Club, AARP driver instructor and a Lakeland driver for hospital pick-ups.

Don is survived by his daughters Deborah (Gerald) Cowgill, Kathryn Hafer and Diane Schaus; his brother Dennis (Sandy) Hafer; sister-in-law Margot Hafer; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his wife Rose in 2010; his brother Duane Hafer and his son-in-law Wayne Schaus.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to Deb Watson and Jill Miller, who were daughters by heart, Amanda and Tim Cowgill, Michael Cowgill, Hospice and Battle Creek and Benton Harbor VA facilities for all of their help with Don's final care.