Donald Dean Janecke

Donald Dean Janecke of Eaton Rapids, age 85, passed away, peacefully by family, Sunday, February 26, 2023. He entered the U.S. Navy in September of 1955 and was honorably discharged in September of 1961. Upon discharge he worked for Diamond Reo then continued on with the City of Lansing until retirement. After retirement, he helped his in-laws W. John (Thelma) Hilliard with the family farm. Don and his wife built the current home where he later developed the land and the many cherished memories and time with his kids and grandchildren. His favorite things to do was literally anything that the six grandchildren were doing, mainly cutting wood, fishing and swimming. In the later years watching the grandchildren hunting the family property and riding dirt bikes. He was a lifetime member of the Michigan United Conservation Clubs and the National Rifle Association.
He is survived and cherished by his wife of 61 years, Elizabeth; two daughters, Vicki Carpenter (James Hunt) and Lisa Janecke; his brother, Robert Janecke; sisters, Sue Janecke, Linda (Barry) Crites and Patricia (Raymond) Bodell; brothers-in-law, Keith Swathwood and Kenneth (Them) Hilliard; sister-in-law Phyllis (Philip) Brooks; his loving grandchildren: Ted Carpenter (April), Taylor Carpenter, Victoria Carpenter (Garland Cook), Brian Hunt, Brittany Hunt, Shelly Janecke, Mark Janecke and Bradly Janecke; his great-grandchildren: Raeanna (Tanner), Joshua (Alysha) and Payton; his great great-grandchildren: Lily, Bensen, Baby C, and Quinn; godchildren: Daniel Swathwood, Annette Daniels and James Janecke; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Loraine Janecke; his brothers, John Janecke and Paul Janecke; his sisters, Betty Swathwood and Nancy Janecke; sister-in-law, Linda Janecke.
The family would like to express their extreme gratitude and thanks to McLaren Hospice for their compassionate care, especially nurses Kimberly and Katrina.
Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to the Calvary Lutheran Church (10500 Plains Road, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827).
Visitation will be on Monday, March 6, 2023, from 6-8 p.m. Funeral service will be Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Skinner Funeral Home (315 S. River Street, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827). To share memories or leave condolences please visit www.skinnerfuneralhomes.com.