TRAVERSE CITY -- Donald I. Axtell, 83, of Traverse City, died Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, at the Grand Traverse Pavilions, surrounded by his family.
He was born in Traverse City on Oct. 20, 1926, the son of Eugene and Sadie (Sullivan) Axtell, and lived in the area all his life.
Don was proud of his service in the U.S. Army during World War II, serving in the Pacific theatre of operations.
He retired from Cone Drive Gear after many years before starting on another career in the plumbing business; first as a master plumber, a member of U.A. Local 85 Plumbers and Fitters; then as the plumbing inspector for the City of Traverse City.
Don didn't have time for typical hobbies because he was too busy volunteering his time to the Boy Scouts as a leader, American Legion baseball as a coach, was very active in the Masonic Lodge #222 for 55 years, and many other organizations that needed an extra hand. He enjoyed wintering in Florida, Arizona and Texas with his wife Jackie.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Jackie Axtell of Traverse City; daughter, Susan Axtell Zimmerman of Kalkaska; sons, Mike and Larry (Barb) Axtell of Traverse City and Steve Axtell of Grand Rapids; sister-in-law, Florence Axtell of Traverse City; brother-in-law, Larry Boyd of Lake Ann; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Inez Hlavka; and brothers, George, Ray and Clarence Axtell.
The family would like to thank the staff at Grand Traverse Pavilions for the wonderful care extended to Don.
There are no services planned at this time.
Memorial donations made to the Alzheimer's Association or a local animal shelter would be appreciated by the family.
The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home; www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com
Print this story
E-mail this story
