Donald Frederick Fechner, 77, of Stevensville, Michigan, passed away Saturday November 30, 2024, surrounded by family. Don was born February 24, 1947, to Gustav and Pauline (Roy) Fechner in St. Joseph, Michigan. He graduated from St. Joseph High School, class of 1965.
Don worked as a lineman for Indiana Michigan Power/American Electric Power for 43 years before retiring in 2009. His years of experience and safety sense allowed him to serve as a mentor to many in his trade.
Sports were a lifelong interest for Don. He spent his younger years playing basketball, football, and baseball. The Tigers were always on the radio in the garage while he was woodworking or tinkering on a new project. Don never missed an opportunity to cheer for his kids from the bleachers, never missing a game. He also spent countless autumn Saturdays in Ann Arbor with his family cheering for the Wolverines. There wasn’t a more fitting way for a superfan to spend his last day on earth, than by watching the Wolverines upset their biggest rival.
Don had many skills and he was always willing to share his expertise with friends and loved ones. He was a great source of advice in many different categories and will be missed for his problem-solving abilities.
Don took pride in keeping an immaculate lawn. Working side by side with his wife, Elizabeth, the two created an inviting, lush, green oasis at their home. They spoiled their feathered friends by creating what his kids affectionately called a Backyard Bird Spa.
Don is survived by his wife of 19 years, Elizabeth (Stedman) Fechner; children Todd (Kelley) Fechner of Eau Claire, Adam Fechner of St. Joseph, Sara (Shane) Logan of Midland, and Martine Stedman of Potterville; grandchildren Evan Logan and Claire Fechner; brothers Harvey Sievert of St. Joseph and Steven Fechner of Stevensville, and sister-in-law Carol Fechner of Deltona, Florida.
Don is preceded in death by his parents, son Chad Fechner, and brother Gerald Fechner.
Per Don’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no funeral services are planned. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan. Share a memory at hovenfunerals.com
Posted On: Friday, December 6, 2024 10:17 AM
