Donald Ulsh

Donald Joseph Ulsh was a man known for his gentleness, his generosity, and his great sense of humor. His cheerful nature put others at ease and he considered the needs of others before his own, even when he himself was ill. He had learned growing up that life sometimes brought difficulties, but he faced what he was given with hard work and a positive attitude. His love for his wife and the rest of his family was evident and he was willing to sacrifice anything for their benefit.

Don was born on April 20, 1923, to William and Nora (Beard) Ulsh in Kalamazoo. His family moved around the area frequently. Don attended a little schoolhouse on Oakland Drive and later Schoolcraft Public Schools. He played the trombone in the high school band and remembered those days with fondness for the rest of his life. He graduated from Schoolcraft High in 1941.

Life sometimes brings great things in mysterious and unexpected ways, a fact Don knew from experience. As a young man, he was walking along the street minding his own business when suddenly a passing car swerved up onto the sidewalk, nearly hitting him. The young woman driving was unshaken and appeared unconcerned. Don found out that her name was Esther Miller and she was out driving her father's Buick. In spite of the near catastrophe at their first meeting, all was forgiven and the couple actually got along well. They began dating and eventually married. The ceremony took place at the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie on March 15, 1944. Don treasured Esther with his whole heart and treated her with gentleness and grace. If she needed something, he jumped up to get it for her. He loved bringing a smile to her face. They shared life and love for fifty-five years until her passing in 1999.

After Don's high school graduation, he began working at Eaton. In December of that year, Japan attacked the naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, plunging the United States into World War II. Don then decided to join many of his peers by enlisting in the military. He served several decorated tours of duty, serving with the Military Police, as a rifleman, and as a cannoneer from 1943 to 1946. He achieved the rank of 2nd Lieutenant and was a master marksman. Don earned several medals, including a bronze battle star. He even had the opportunity to play football for the Army while serving in Europe. He visited Esther at Fort Brady when he was home between deployments. He was one of the fortunate to return home to his weary yet triumphant nation, and faced the challenge of finding employment in the new work force.

When he returned home, he worked with Eaton again, and later for Barmo. He also found employment in the maintenance department of Schoolcraft Public Schools. Don believed that community involvement was important and he served on the Schoolcraft village council, including several years as president. He was also the president of the Schoolcraft Alumni Association. He served as a Boy Scout troop leader when his sons Kevan and Gary were scouts.

Don liked to stay busy and productive. He had many hobbies, including macramé, latch hook rugs, and cooking. He tried his hand at woodworking and made rocking horses for each of his grandchildren. He had a variety of interests and would sometimes collect particular items for a short period of time. He had sets of kitchen appliances ordered from television and a doll collection he started for Esther. He was particularly fond of raising orchids and African violets. He was proud of his flowers and sometimes exchanged plants with his sister. Music remained an important part of his life and he was always an enthusiastic supporter of the high school band. Last year he had the pleasure of directing Schoolcraft's band at a football game, a treasured memory for him.

Don's generous spirit and cheerful personality made him a joy to be around. His friends and family used the occasion of his eightieth birthday to show him just how special he was to them. He got picked up in a limo and rode with several special guests to a surprise birthday party. He treasured that unique opportunity and was pleased to be with so many dear people.

Don is survived by his children, Gary Ulsh of Schoolcraft, Kevan and Susan Ulsh of Texas; a brother, Bill Ulsh of Portage, and a sister, Betty and Lyle Decker of Portage; grandchildren, Craig and Sheri Ulsh of Marcellus, Kendall and Kristin Ulsh of Schoolcraft, Kacie Ulsh of Kalamazoo, and Karin Ulsh of Texas; and three great-grandchildren, Jessica, Shawnta, and Deontea.

Don passed away on Tuesday, September 7, 2004, at Bronson Methodist Hospital. His wife and a daughter, Lynett, preceded him in death. Don was eighty-one.

Friends will be received on Friday, September 10, from 5 - 8 PM at the Rupert, Durham, Marshall, and Gren Life Story Funeral Home, Vicksburg Chapel. His Life Story service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, September 11, at 11:00 AM. Burial will be at Moore Park Cemetery. To read Don's complete life story, share a memory, send flowers, or make a memorial contribution to Howardsville Christian School or Schoolcraft High School Band, please visit his personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com.

Don's strength, his willingness to sacrifice for others, and his ready smile will continue to provide his loved ones with an example that will touch them for years to come.