Donald F. Rohn, Jr.

Donald Frederick Rohn, Jr., of Merrill, Michigan, age 71, will be remembered as a steward to his land, his family, and his community. Don passed away August 3, 2021, with his family by his side after fighting the good fight to the very end with humility, kindness, and humor.

Don was born June 3, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan to the late Donald F. Rohn, Sr. and Stephania (Kasprzyk) Rohn. Celebrating 47 years of marriage, he married Paula J. Oomen on September 22, 1973. Don was a graduate of Merrill High School’s Class of 1968 and served in the Army National Guard. He was also a lifetime member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Wheeler, Michigan.

Don lived deeply, loved openly, and trusted easily. He exemplified how to live meaningfully through his rare ability to center his life on the most important daily joys: spending time with his family and friends on his front porch, working his land with his son, drinking coffee with his sister, having coffee and donuts with his Hemlock Elevator buddies, grilling barbecued chicken with his brothers-in-law, gathering for Sunday night suppers, making maple syrup with his son-in-law, taking back road rides in his pickup, and holding hands with his wife every night before bed when they prayed together thanking God for their blessings and offering prayers for their family, friends, health, and happiness.

A lifetime resident of Merrill, and Merrill’s 2010 Citizen of the Year, Don was an active member and advocate for his community. He served as a Lakefield Township Trustee, a member of the Lakefield Township Fire Board, and a member of the Merrill Lions Club. Someone knew Don everywhere he went, and he loved to strike up a conversation with a hearty hello and an easy laugh.

Don, a third-generation farmer, devoted his life to his land, farming corn and soybeans with his son (and best buddy) Matt by his side. He also previously worked as a truck driver whose CB handle was “Teddy Bear,” hauling double-bottoms of grain to local elevators.

Don enjoyed woodworking, playing his guitar, and deer hunting (although, he mostly enjoyed the comradery of sharing coffee, donuts, and chili with his family on opening day).

Don had the rare combination of toughness, productive stubbornness, and kindness. He was a three-time cancer survivor who leaned into every medical challenge he faced, inspiring others, and beating medical odds and expectations habitually. He overcame his challenges with his signature positive attitude and with gratitude for what he could accomplish and for those who cared for him.

Don is survived by his wife Paula; daughter, Abby (Tim) McGuire; son, Matt (Alissa) Rohn; grandchildren, Gabe, Collin, Marek, Gannon (and Baby #5 due February 2022) McGuire and Brooklyn Rohn; sisters, Marlene (Marvin) Penny and Kathy (Tom) Vanecek; as well as his nieces and nephews, many cousins, and extended family. Don’s family wishes to express a heartfelt thank you to the staff at MidMichigan Medical Center, Midland, for the care, compassion, and kindness Don received.

Funeral service will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, August 6, 2021 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 10020 East Monroe Road, Wheeler. Pastor Michael Podeszwa and Pastor Steve Gulick will officiate with burial in Lakefield Township Cemetery. Friends may visit the family from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider the Jonesfield/Lakefield Township Fire Department.