Donald E Masters

Donald Eugene Masters, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on June 21st, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born on December 8, 1932, in Muskegon, Michigan, Don was the son of Dean and Elizabeth Masters and the younger brother of William (Bill) Masters.

In high school, Don met the love of his life, and wife of almost 70 years, Patricia Ann Turner. While attending Jackson Junior College they began dating and were married in 1955 in the

backyard of her parents’ house. After junior college, Don went on to earn a Master’s degree from the University of Michigan and later served in the U.S. Army overseas. Don returned home from his time in Korea to meet his newborn son, Alan (Jane Ratcliff), who was later joined by his three sisters, Julie (Dave) Olney, Karen (Simon) VanBeek, and Lisa (Terry) Daly. Don and Pat also hosted an exchange student, Gunnar Stålklint Suarez (Alberto), who became a lifelong member of the family. Don taught mathematics at Jackson Community College for almost 40 years, where he inspired generations of students with his deep knowledge and gentle guidance. He famously rode his bicycle to work nearly every day for decades, earning a feature in the local paper! Don’s love of music and art was always present and shared with his children and grandchildren. He sang in several local choirs, played piano, and spent countless hours listening to classical records while reading along with the scores. He also took painting classes, and his art is proudly displayed on the walls of his children’s and grandchildren’s homes.

Don’s painting skills weren’t solely reserved for art. Don and Pat spent many trips to their children’s homes painting walls or even building cabinets. Together, they visited their children and grandchildren and traveled around the world, creating memories with their ever-growing family.

In the early years, summers were filled with adventure as the Masters family embarked on road trips across the U.S. and Canada, camping together under the stars in the big red tent. As new generations joined in, Don and Pat took the family on adventures as far as Alaska and the Baltic. During visits from grandchildren Don became famous for his pancakes, serving the growing crowd and eventually passing the tradition on to the next generation. Many great conversations and much laughter were shared over a pancake breakfast.

Don is survived by his four children, eight grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Donations can be made to Jackson College Student Emergency Fund or Arbor Grove Congregational Church.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday Aug 3, 4:30pm at Arbor Grove Congregational Church, 2621 McCain Rd, Jackson MI. Visitation will start at 3:30pm.

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