Donald Alfred Lipfert

Donald Alfred Lipfert, age 83 of Grand Haven, passed away on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at home. He was born on November 30, 1939 in Wilkes-Barr, PA, to the late Alfred and Dorothy (Mann) Lipfert.

Don graduated from Hamilton Township High School. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Education from Capital University Lutheran College, and then his Master’s degree from University of Michigan.

Don proudly served his country in the US Army from 1957 to 1965. He married Janice Joan Engel on December 30, 1960 in Saginaw, MI.

Don was a member of United Methodist Church of the Dunes, and was a former long-time member and youth director at Zion Lutheran Church in Cadillac.

He worked as a high school educator, retiring from Bridgeport High School after 30 years, then serving as Director of EMS for Missaukee County (Michigan), and EMT Instructor for the State of Michigan.

Don continuously gave to his community in a number of ways. He served as a former Volunteer Firefighter for Bridgeport, MI, also volunteering for the American Red Cross Disaster Relief (where he served over 9,000 hours on many disaster assignments), M.A.D.D., and serving as former Ottawa County Sheriff’s Dept. Senior Volunteer Schedule Coordinator.

Don is lovingly remembered by those in his community, his family, and many friends. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Janice; and their two children, Amy (Mike) Stielstra and Michael (Shelli) Lipfert; her three grandchildren: Justin (Lauren) Stielstra, Damon Stielstra, and Sarah Lipfert; two sisters, Judy (Bill) Meyers and Linda Werner; brother-in-law, Terry (Lois) Engel; and several nieces and nephews.

The Memorial Service for Don will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at Klaassen Family Funeral Home with Don Woodward officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Hospice of North Ottawa Community or United Methodist Church of the Dunes Men’s Group.

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