Donald Kaliniak

Donald Kaliniak, age 89, of Grattan Twp, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2023 at home. Born January 20, 1934 in Grand Rapids and lived a life of service.  He took great pride & had a deep and loving passion for his family and serving in the U.S Marine Corp, followed by a long career at the City of Grand Rapids Treatment Plant.  He lived the majority of his life in Grand Rapids where he and Kean raised their 3 children. They later moved to Grattan Twp where they have spent the last 30 years. He enjoyed the outdoors and working in his yard.  He had a green thumb and could grow anything.  Later in life he took up canning, and had a unique take on pickles and salsa which he enjoyed sharing with family and friends.  Don enjoyed all animals and especially his dog Stella. 

Don was a devoted and loving son, husband, father, brother, grandfather and great grandfather.  He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Kean.  Daughter Catherine and sons Rob (Patti) and Andrew (Edie).  He was extremely proud of his 5 grandchildren, Kyle (Katie), Alex (Alexis), Kevin, Michaela, Mya.  He also adored his 2 great granddaughters Monroe and Sterling.  He is also survived by his brother Roger (Sandy) and Gert Patterson, his very dear sister-in-law.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Mary.  Sisters Esther, Lorraine, and Betty and brothers Walt, Florian and David. 

Dons’ family would like to express our sincere thank you to Spectrum Hospice and to Audrey Olthof for her care and friendship.

Family and friends will gather at Memorial Alternatives, 2432 Fuller Ave NE in Grand Rapids on Thursday June 1, 2023 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm

Memorial Mass will take place at St Patrick’s Church Parnell on Friday June 2, 2023 at 11 AM with visitation one hour prior to service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to See Me Home Senior Dog Sanctuary.  25019 Featherstone rd. Sturgis MI 49091

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