Donald Walbridge

Walbridge, Donald Joseph Gull Lake (Augusta), MI Don, age 88, died peacefully Friday morning, December 18, 2020 at his residence with his loving family at his side. Don, the son of Fred and Virginia (Given) Walbridge, was born in Battle Creek, MI on April 13, 1932; he was a lifetime area resident and a 1950 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School where he excelled in the classroom and on the baseball diamond. He studied business and economics at Western Michigan University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1954. While at WMU he continued his love for the game of baseball and lettered on the Freshman team as a walk-on. He served his country honorably and nobly in the United States Army, stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado Springs from 1954-1956 before returning to the area. He represented the Sun life Insurance Company while attending the University of Michigan Law School, graduating with a Juris Doctor degree in 1961. He worked as a Legal Aid Attorney for Calhoun County, became Senior Trust Officer at the Security National Bank, and went into private practice in 1972 maintaining an office in the Columbia Square Building until his retirement in 1994. In 2012 he was honored as a 50 year member of the State of Michigan Bar Association. Don was a proud and active member of many Battle Creek area associations and organizations including: The B.C. Chamber of Commerce, The Exchange Club, The Cereal City Barbershop Chorus, and The Old Timers Baseball Association. He served on the board of the Kingman Museum and was a member of the Yorkville Community Church and Choir. He supported the Battle Creek YMCA and participated in their Volleyball, Racquetball and Handball tournaments. Known as a tough competitor, his skill and determination earned him respect from his opponents and a city championship or two on the handball courts. Don enjoyed nothing more than being with his family and friends; sharing experiences through activities like canoeing, fishing, hunting; and travelling to and experiencing the beauty of the American West. He especially loved Sedona, Arizona and spent many winters there with his wife Louise after retiring. Don was united in marriage to Louise Elizabeth Darkey in Battle Creek on April 2, 1955 and they shared 61 years together. She preceded him in death on January 20, 2016. Surviving are his three sons: Randy (Liz) Walbridge of Richland, MI; Jay (Stephanie) Walbridge of Hickory Corners, MI; Ken (Kelly) Walbridge of Gainesville, TX; his foster son, Michael (Dawn) Isherwood of Dumfries, VA; ten precious grandchildren; a recent great grandson; his brother, Dave (Gail) Walbridge of Orlando, FL. and many nieces, nephews and their families. Don was also preceded in death by his parents. A private family graveside service to celebrate Don's life will be held at a future date at Memorial Park Cemetery in Battle Creek. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Don's honor may be directed to the Gull Lake Community Schools Foundation, 10100 East D Avenue, Richland, MI 49083. The Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Richland Chapel is assisting Don's family. Personal messages and/or favorite memories of Don may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com