Donald E. Kline

Cadillac - Donald Eugene Kline, of Cadillac and formerly of Three Rivers and Luther, passed away on Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at Munson Healthcare's Cadillac Hospital.  He was 86.

He was born at home on April 1, 1933, in Fabius Township in St. Joseph County to Harry and Zelma (Schultz) Kline.  He entered in to a family of what would become eight children, six boys and two girls.  Don grew up and attended school in Three Rivers before joining the service and proudly serving his country as a Corporal with the United States Army during the Korean War. He made his living as a master welder with Clifton Engineering in Three Rivers for many years prior to working at Cook Nuclear Power Plant.  He was a proud member of the UA Local 190 of plumbers and pipe fitters. In the 70's he was able to move north, to the Luther area, allowing for his passions of deer hunting, gardening, snowmobiling, and being outdoors to become more prevalent.  Settling in Luther Don was able to try his hand at farming raising several head of beef cattle, he paid his dues with daily chores, working the soil and earned his title as a farmer.  Don could often be found taking the view of his feathered friends from on of his many bird feeders.  He will be greatly missed by many.

Donald is survived by his significant other for many years, Inez Westen of Cadillac;  two daughters, Tammy (Tom) Kretschman of Sturgis and Donyel (Anna Owens) Kline of Battle Creek; his beloved grandchildren, Jodie and Amanda; great-grandchildren, Alexus, Haley, Brooke, Ezra, Hudson; four brothers, Ivan Kline, Richard (Vada) Kline, Wayne (Mary Lou) Kline, and Roger Kline; two sisters, Lois Boulette, sister, Barbara (Gary) Schaeffer; his sister-in-law, Olive Kline; as well as many other loving family members and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Zelma and a brother, Arden Kline.

Per his wishes cremation has taken place and services will take place downstate at a later date.

The family is being served by the Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home.  

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