Donald Roy "Don" Rice Sr.

Donald Roy Rice, Sr., age 79, passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, peacefully in his home, just as he had always hoped. A longtime Berrien County resident, Donald often said he wanted his final moments to be in the place he loved, not in a hospital. Those who knew him believe he ultimately died of a broken heart after the loss of his beloved wife, Sharon, just eleven months ago.

Donald was a kind-hearted man with a steady presence; gentle in spirit, yet firm when it came to guiding and protecting the people he loved. Family was the center of his world and he cared for them throughout his life.

He was a grill master, who loved cooking for others, a traveler who enjoyed cruises and trips across the United Sates, and an outdoorsman who found joy in hunting, fishing, and shooting. For many years, he took memorable fishing trips to Devils Lake, North Dakota, with close friends. In his younger years, Donald worked at Cook Energy Plant rising to the position of supervisor and retiring after more than 20 years of service. Not ready to leave the workforce, he then worked with the Union Millwrights at various plants and sites throughout the region.

In recent years, Donald found a second family through camping. He greatly cherished the friendships he made there, who also became an important part of his life.

Donald is proceeded in death by his loving wife, Sharon; his son, Jeremy Rice; his parents; several of his brothers and sisters; and in-laws whom he held dear.
He leaves behind his children: Donald, Jr. (Muriel), Raymond (Amanda), and his daughter Vicki; his twin brother Ronald; his grandchildren Zachary (Jennifer), Kristina (Adrian Torres), Marissa, Allison, and Brady, his fifteen great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 7, at 11 AM with Pastor Paul Schaewe officiating. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 2673 W. John Beers Rd., Stevensville, MI 49127, or the Frankel Cardiovascular Center at the University of Michigan, Michigan Medicine Office of Development 777 E. Eisenhower Pkwy., Suite 650, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 (Please make your check payable to the Regents of the University of Michigan and include a note or write the area you wish to support on the memo line.) Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.