Don Leonard Bregger, 89, passed away peacefully Wednesday, February 8th, 2017 at home in Bangor. He was born August 23rd, 1927 on the family farm that he eventually owned and operated until his retirement. He also worked as a rural route mail carrier, in his later years. He received his degree in horticulture in 1948 at Michigan State University. He loved bowling, golfing, playing cards, and watching all sports. He was an avid fan of the Spartans as well as Chicago Bears and Cubs. He was fortunate to be able to follow his beloved Cubbies to a World Series championship. Other interests included Civil War history and music. His musical tastes ranged from classical to country and bluegrass. Don and Martha were in frequent attendance at the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra. Don was an extremely social person and loved to engage in a good argument with all of his friends. He was a member of the People’s Unitarian Church in Kalamazoo as well as many civic organizations, including: Jaycees, Lions, Elks, Moose and the Bangor Historical Society.
He is survived by his wife Martha (Watkins) of 60 years, daughters Lisa (Allen Janusz) Bregger of Hopland, CA, and Vicki (Rob) Seth of Plainwell, MI; sons Louis Bregger of Bangor and Rob (Linda) Bregger of Muskego, WI; Sisters Doris Finn of Midland, MI, Alice (Ray) Steinbach of Chelsea, MI, and Lois (John) Verdonk of Bangor, MI. As well as seven grandchildren: Nia, Sonja, Arjuna, Aaron, Alex, Hannah and Steven and four great grandchildren: Ocean, River, Forrest, and Fiona.
Don (and Martha) received extensive support from the caring staff of hospice. The family suggests those wishing to honor Don’s memory, make a donation in his name to the Great Lakes Caring Hospice Foundation (www.GreatLakesCaring.com). Arrangements were handled by Avink Funeral Home in Schoolcraft.
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