George McDonald Thayer

He was born on Feb. 16, 1929, in Shingleton, Mich., son of the late Leon Wesley and Olive Leota (McDonald) Thayer. He attended Kingsford Schools, graduating from Kingsford High School in 1947.

He then enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country during the Korean Conflict. While in the Air Force, he learned his trade as a mechanic, a skill he cherished and worked at his entire life.

Don married Annette Rose Richmond on May 30, 1954 at the First Congregation Church while stationed in Keystone, S.D. Upon being honorably discharged, he and his wife moved to Kingsford in 1954. Together, with the help of family, they built the family home they live in today in 1965.

Upon his return home, Don first worked as a milkman for Osterberg Dairy. He then got his start in the mechanic business from Iron Mountain Auto Supply, eventually owning his own shop.

Don’s greatest passions were his family and cars. If questioned about when something occurred, he would reply, “Let’s see, we were driving this make and model vehicle, so it had to happen in such and such a year.” He repaired cars for many people, as well as restoring cars for himself. He also loved to play cards and square dance, something he taught hundreds of people to do through the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Theron Thayer.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Annette Rose Thayer; three daughters, Debra (Ray) Bartnikowski, Donnette (Fred) Salczenko, and Denise Thayer; six grandchildren, Lisa (Paul) Thoune, Michael Salczenko (Sarah Clawson), Christie Fleming, Raymond Bartnikowski, Jennifer Bartnikowski, (Ben Nevel) and Nicole (Josh) Grinnell; 10 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 24 at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. The funeral service will follow at noon at the church. Rev. Michael March will officiate.

Condolences to the family of George McDonald “Don” Thayer may be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.