Donald Zelichowski

Donald James Zelichowski, Sr., 75, of Fulton, MI passed away on Monday, January 9, 2017. He was born in Battle Creek, MI on November 11, 1941 to Walter Peter and Margarite May Zelichowski. Don's father was in the United States Army, which enabled Don to live in several places abroad as a child. Upon returning to the States, Don and his family settled back in Battle Creek where he attended Pennfield High School until his junior year. He transferred to cross town rival Springfield High School where he graduated in 1958. Don was a Varsity letterman in football, baseball and basketball. After High School, Don followed in his father's footsteps and spent eight years in the United States Army. While stationed in Korea, he met his future wife, Lee Zelichowski. Don still had the bug to live abroad. At the end of his eight years in the military, he worked for Philco Ford and traveled the world as a military contractor to such places as the Philippines, Korea and Iran. But no matter where Don was in the world, he always wanted to return to Michigan. Don finally set down roots in Michigan in 1974 where he spent the rest of his years doing what he loved; golfing, hunting, fishing and rooting for the Detroit Lions. Don is survived by his two sons, Walter P (Kathy) Zelichowski, of Hudsonville, MI and Donald James (Molly) Zelichowski Jr., of Battle Creek, MI. He is also survived by four grandchildren; Brandon Zelichowski; Eric Zelichowski; Tyler Zelichowski; Kristen Zelichowski. A visitation to celebrate Don's life will be held at Baxter Funeral Home, 375 W. Dickman Rd., Battle Creek, MI on Saturday, January 14, 2017 from 3:00 to 7:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, it was Don's wish that any memorial contributions go to Wings Home in Allegan, MI. They are a volunteer Hospice facility where both Don and Lee (2014) spent their last days. They both received unbelievable care from some wonderful and truly compassionate nurses and volunteers. Please send any donations in memory of Don Zelichowski Sr. to Wings Home, c/o Wings of Hope Hospice, 530 Linn Street, Allegan, MI 49010.