Donald Courtade

Donald Joseph Courtade, age 86 of Traverse City died December 7th, 2014. He was born on October 2nd, 1928 in Traverse City, Michigan. He was born and has lived on the 5th Generation family farm his entire life.

Donald married Harriet Courtade on August 19, 1948 in Traverse City at the Saint Francis Catholic Church.

Donald worked as a machinist at Cone Drive Gears for 30 years; while maintaining the family farm. He was the first president and founding member of the East Bay Volunteer Fire Department. Donald was a 4H leader for many years, a member of St. Francis Church Member, Traverse City Eagle's and the Western Michigan Farm Bureau.

Donald enjoyed showing cattle at a very young age, camping with his family, snowmobiling, being outdoors, driving, and being a devoted grandfather.

Donald is survived by his wife, Harriet Courtade; children, Jane (Lon) Kologe, Jeff Courtade, JoAnn (Bill) Steinebach, Don (Lana) Courtade, Jr., Matt (Sue) Courtade, John (JoAnne) Courtade; 13 grandchildren, and 26 great-great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Mamie Courtade; sisters, Evelyn Johnson and Louise Witkop; brother, Amiel Courtade and his grandson Mike Pendock.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Donald's name St. Francis Catholic Church, Traverse City. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to sign the guest book and share a memory with his family. A Memorial Mass will be held 11am, Thursday, December 11, 2014 at St. Francis Catholic Church, Traverse City. The family will greet friends starting at 9:30am. A Rosary will be recited at10:40 am. The family chose Life Story Funeral Home, Traverse City.