Donald Frank Stephanic

Donald Frank (Don) Stephanic died on December 12, 2025, at the age of 66, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer that spanned more than a year.

Don was born on July 21, 1959, in Highland Park, Michigan, to Frank and Patricia (Oberski) Stephanic. The third of four children, he grew up in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. From an early age, Don demonstrated a strong work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and a quiet determination that would define both his personal life and professional career.

Don pursued his higher education at Michigan Technological University, where he earned both his undergraduate and master's degrees. Following college, he began his career at General Motors before moving on to GMF Robotics (now Fanuc). His entrepreneurial spirit later led him to co-found Applied Manufacturing Technologies, where he spent 13 years as Vice-President. Don later acquired Western Engineered Products, which he owned and operated with pride for 15 years, before selling the company and retiring.

On July 13, 1985, Don married the love of his life, Betsy Benner, in Livonia, Michigan, and they shared forty wonderful years together. Together they built a life rooted in love, commitment, and family. Don was a devoted husband and a proud father to his two daughters, Alison (Bobby) Robinette and Megan (Sami Merhi) Stephanic. Being a grandfather to their daughters, Emilia and Josephine Robinette and Sophia and Elizabeth Merhi, was one of Don's greatest joys, and he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren.

After retiring, Don and Betsy split their time between their home in Grand Blanc, Michigan and their cottage on South Lake Leelanau in Cedar, Michigan. They also enjoyed traveling south in the winter, visiting family and friends and attending golf tournaments. One of their favorite places to travel was Grand Cayman, where they enjoyed many happy vacations. Don's favorite activities were golfing, fishing, playing cards, and above all, spending time with family and friends. He was also deeply committed to giving back to his community. Don served on the board of trustees of Kingsbury School for eight years, ending his tenure as the Board Chair. During this time, he helped Kingsbury make the transition from an independent private school to a public charter school, helping to ensure its continued existence. Don also contributed his expertise as a member of an advisory board at Lake Superior State University.

Don is survived by his wife, Betsy, his daughters, sons-in-law, and granddaughters, as well as his siblings Mark (Paula) Stephanic, Diane (Jim) Toscano, and Jeanne (Ray) Jeffery. He was preceded in death by his parents and infant daughter, Elizabeth.

Don will be remembered for his integrity, leadership, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and family devotion that will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 11:00 am at Fenton First Presbyterian Church, 503 South Leroy Street, Fenton, MI 48430, with a luncheon at the church afterwards. Family will greet visitors on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 1:00-4:00 pm and 5:00-8:00 pm at the Dryer Funeral Home (101 First Street, Holly, MI 48442) and again Monday, December 22, 2025, at Fenton First Presbyterian Church, from 10 am until the time of the service. Burial will be in the spring at the Solon Township Cemetery in Cedar, MI.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations in Don's honor to the Holly Presbyterian Church (207 E. Maple Street, Holly, MI 48442) or Michigan Technological University (www.mtu.edu).