Donald Chrispens

Chrispens , Donald 4/1/1948 - 12/3/2020 Delton Donald LeRoy "Don" Chrispens of Delton, MI died unexpectedly at Ascension Borgess hospital on December 3, 2020. Don was born in Sheridan, MI on April 1, 1948 to Samuel and Cordelia (Williams) Chrispens. From an early age, Don learned to appreciate nature and being outside. As he grew up, he continued his love of the outdoors. He spent much time year-round camping, hiking, and canoeing. Don was a member of the "Adventure Club" and participated in numerous planned trips to National Parks, State Parks, and wilderness areas across the United States. His favorite place to visit was Yosemite National Park, and he made many trips out to California over the years to spend time there. Don was a graduate of Adelphia Academy and Western Michigan University. He served his country in the Army and was a Vietnam Veteran. (Don was married to Penny (Anderson) Chrispens; this marriage ended in divorce.) Don worked for many years at the VA Medical Center in Battle Creek and then at Ascension Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo as a licensed phlebotomist. Don was drawn to people. He loved to talk about current events, politics, and his experiences in life. He had a wealth of knowledge about many things and willingly shared his own experiences with others, often encouraging them to seek their own adventures. Don was a talented photographer. Friends and relatives often sought him out to capture their special events and celebrations. Don was a lifelong Michigan State fan and supported his team. He enjoyed traveling to California to watch the Spartans play in the Rose Bowl. Don was able to complete his lifelong dream of owning land when he purchased his small farm in rural Delton in 1997. He enjoyed his time spent on the farm. Don had an adult-size treehouse built in the back of the property for everyone to enjoy when visiting the farm. Don cared deeply about the environment and people. He gave generously to many charities: Arbor Day, Defenders of Wildlife Nature Conservancy, St. Joseph Indian School, and Kalamazoo Gospel Mission. Don loved his family very much. He was preceded in death by his son, Samuel Chrispens and his father, Samuel Chrispens. He is survived by his mother, Cordelia Chrispens-Owens, 99, of Apopka, FL; his grandchildren, Collin Chrispens, Casssandra Chrispens, and Kaylee Chrispens; his sister, Marj Chrispens; his brother, Kenneth (Ann) Chrispens; special niece, Angela (Jay) Clark; grand-nieces, Kinley and Mackenzie Clark; grand-nephew, Cannon Clark; and his significant other of 24 years, Linda Davis; as well as his beloved cats, Mittens and Henry. Don Chrispens left this world making it a better place. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. A private graveside service will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery to celebrate his life. Arrangements by the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Richland Chapel. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.