Donald Gerald Statler |
Donald Gerald Statler, 74, of Flint, Mich., died Thursday, May 19, 2011, at his residence.
A celebration of Don’s life will be Monday, May 23, 2011, at noon at Sharp Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 6063 Fenton Road, Flint. The Rev. Maurice Horne will officiate. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of service.
Donald was born Oct. 19, 1936, in Flint, the son of Barney R. and Marion G. (Hollinger) Statler.
Don retired from General Motors after 33 years in management. His experiences included work in the Flint and Martinsburg, W.Va., GM SPO plants. Following retirement, he worked in the restaurant industry as a banquet manager at The Candlelight Inn and Restaurant in Bethlehem, Pa., and recently served as assistant clubhouse manager at the Flint Elks 222 Golf Club.
Don was an avid fisherman and often could be found at his cabin on Bass Lake in the East Tawas area. He also enjoyed trips to the casino and loved gardening. Don was a huge U of M fan and loved watching the Detroit Tigers and Lions. He was an active member of Lincoln Park United Methodist Church and was a huge supporter of Old Newsboys of Flint.
Surviving are children, Denise (Joe) Kuhna of Maryland, and Bryan (Melinda) Statler, Bradley (Kay) Statler, Deborah (Joe) Brita, all of Pennsylvania. Don leaves nine grandchildren, Andrea Semler, Susan Dagliano, Katy Statler, Jennifer Brita, Michele Brita, Jay Statler, Kelly Kuhna, Lucy Kuhna and Matthew Brita; four great-grandchildren; sister, Joyce (Chris) Hamilton; nephew, David Hamilton; niece, Lori Melton; great-nephew, Isaac; and special friends, Debby, Tiffany, Tracy, Craig, Frank, Bill, Jimmie, Scott and Grant.
In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to Lincoln Park United Methodist Church, 3410 Fenton Road, Flint, MI 48507. Tributes may be posted on the obituaries page of www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.
