Donald J. Wilson

Donald J. Wilson's life was, above all, a love story - one that began with a fateful bus ride and a girl with a bassoon. Born in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Thomas and Blanche Wilson, on December 7, 1926, Donald's journey was one of devotion, adventure, and quiet brilliance.
He met Veriel, the love of his life, on his first day of college. As he stepped off the bus, he spotted her - petite yet carrying an instrument almost as tall as she was. It was the kind of moment that, had it been written in a novel, might have seemed too perfect to be real. Fate, however, was very real that day. By sheer luck, or perhaps destiny, they found themselves seated next to each other in class. They were so engrossed in conversation that they were promptly kicked out for the day - a small price to pay for what became a lifetime of love. From that moment on, Don and Veriel were inseparable, their conversation never ending, their love story spanning 77 beautiful years.
Don proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, though he was fortunate never to be sent overseas. His brilliance in electrical engineering led him to a distinguished career with Detroit Edison, where he played a role in designing the Fermi Nuclear Plant. In 1966, he spent 13 months in Iran as part of a U.S. initiative to help design the country's electrical system, his work leaving a lasting impact far beyond his hometown.
In the last few years, Don faced a new battle - one against dementia. But even as memories faded, his love for Veriel never wavered. Their hands, so often intertwined through decades of laughter and quiet moments, never lost their way back to each other.
To his beloved Veriel – his Kay - Don leaves behind these words:
"My dearest Kay, we have walked this earth together in love, through every season, every joy, and every trial. You were my first and forever conversation, my partner in all things. Until we meet again for eternity, I will love you still."
Don's story is not one of endings but of an enduring love that time itself cannot erase. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the love story that, like all the best ones, will never truly end.
Donald is survived by his loving wife of 77 years, Veriel "Kay" Wilson; beloved son, Dr. James R. (Beverly) Wilson; and adored grandchildren, Dr. Elizabeth Crafts, M.D. and Timothy James Wilson. He was preceded in death by his loving son, Richard "Rick" Wilson.
Please keep Donald in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.