Don L Jepson

Don Lyle Jepsen, 73, of Petoskey passed away Saturday, December 1, 2012 from Alzheimers disease.

His memorial service will be held at 11am, Friday, December 7, 2012 at the Walloon Lake Community Church, with Pastor Jeff Ellis officiating.

The son of Leonard and Evelyn (Young) Jepsen, Don was born on November 14, 1939 in Petoskey, Michigan.

He is survived by his wife, Martha, their children; Gary (Joanne), David (Tracey), Thomas (Sharon), and Eva (Brian) Taylor, and grandchildren; Krissy (Albert) Tobey and great-grandson, Leonard; Kenneth, Thomas Jr., Kari, Leann (Ryan) Butler, Rachel, Tyler, Allie (Anthony) Carpenter; Jonathan, Cody, Mina, and Samm Taylor. Don is also survived by his brothers Jerry and Dane (Roseann), and sister, Carol (Robert) Barnes. He was preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law, Kenneth and sister-in-law, Darlene.

On November 16, 1957, Don married Martha Tillotson. He joined the Army in 1957 and served in the Reserves for 7 years. Although Don did not earn a high school diploma, he became proficient at auto repair, auto body repair, and excavation equipment. Using these self-taught skills he and his wife co-owned and operated Dons Auto & Truck Repair and Dons Earth Moving. Don also volunteered as a fireman for Melrose and Resort/Bear Creek Fire Departments for many years.

Don was quick to laugh and share a funny story or joke. He enjoyed being the center of attention and often was. Throughout his life he enjoyed fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, bowling, skeet and trapshooting and won awards as an accomplished marksman. He also adored the company of his dogs; Ginger and Lucky.

Don will be remembered as a kind and generous man. He will be greatly missed.

Memorial contributions or donation in lieu of flowers may be made to Walloon Lake Community Church or Hospice of Michigan.