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Donald McKay

January 30, 2017
Kalamazoo, MI

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Donald Louis McKay, Born June 10, 1931 in Kalamazoo, MI and died Monday morning, January 30, 2017 at Brookdale Memory Care, of Alzheimers complications. When Don joined the army he was first stationed in Bamber, Germany, where he befriended his future brother-in-law, and eventually his future wife. Don not only fell in love with Selma, he fell for the whole Weiss family. They, in turn, embraced him like a son and brother. Daughter Diana was born in Bamberg. Shortly after Don got orders for Korea, but then orders for Japan. His wife and daughter joined him. Daughter Marion was born in Osaka. During a horrific typhoon in Wakamura, Don organized a human chain, saving lives, pulling villagers out of crushing waters. The Mayor and villagers honored Don with a medal for heroism, a special dinner, and many beautiful gifts. He became "McKay-san". After retiring from 10 years of service, Don and family returned to Kalamazoo. He joined the Kalamazoo Police Dept. His son Steven was born. Don and Selma loved to travel. They visited all 50 National Parks. For over 30 years these two gypsies traveled all over Europe, China, and Panama, returning almost yearly to Bamberg. Their lives were filled with love, joy, adventure, and a loving caring 66 years of married bliss. And of course with a family he loved dearly. After retirement from Upjohn/Pfizer, Don and Selma enjoyed 20 years of "snowbirding" to Hallandale, Florida. Don leaves his true love and partner, Selma; children, Diana Eere & Jim Kendrick, Marion Marchetti, and Steve and Penny McKay; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Also his loved nephew, Daniel McBride of Jupiter Island. In Germany brother and sister-in-law, Weimer and Inge Weiss and family; sister-in-law, Agnes Weiss, Werner and Marritt Weiss. His only surviving sister, Diane Clary; nephew, John Clary of Virginia, and niece, Kathy and Pete Kile. A heartfelt thank-you for the tender care the young women at Brookdale provided; especially Amber, Hazel, Kelsey, Maria, Daryarra, Maritsa, Felicia, and Kelly. To our incredible hospice nurse Matt from Hospice Care of SW Michigan our enduring gratitude. The whole family benefited by your wise guidance. And to Chris, through this last rough week, we are indebted, grateful, and blessed. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service and celebration of Don's life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 4th at the Langeland Family Funeral Home, 3926 S. 9th St., Kalamazoo, MI 49009. Visitation with the family will be from 1 p.m. until time of the service, with the luncheon following. Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan or the Alzheimer's Association.