Donald Supenski

With a journey filled with friends, family, and so much love, Donald Supenski enriched the lives of all those around him in ways big and small. He was a constant source of strength, no matter the circumstances, and his lively personality and genuine nature allowed him to form deep connections with everyone he met. Don could strike up a conversation with anyone, and had a way of making people feel seen and important. Don will be dearly missed and forever loved by those who knew him best.

The late 1950s are remembered as a tumultuous but influential chapter in history for the United States. Tensions surrounding the Cold War were continuing to escalate overseas. In the world of entertainment, legendary artists such as Elvis Presley were quickly popularizing rock and roll, and iconic TV shows of the time including I Love Lucy played on television sets all across the country. Meanwhile, in Goshen, New York, Joseph Richard and Helen (Niezgoda) Supenski were awaiting the arrival of their third child. They were happy to welcome their son, Donald Stanley, into the world on September 24 of 1957.

Growing up, Don enjoyed a chaotic but fun-filled childhood. He was one of four boys in the Supenski household and was raised in upstate New York alongside his brothers, Richard, Paul, and John. The boys certainly got into their share of mischief over the years, typically with Don as their ringleader. As a young boy, he began to grow into his goofy personality and was known to be a bundle of energy. Each year, the family enjoyed a memorable vacation to Seaside Heights in New Jersey, where they went to the boardwalk and the beach.

Don received his formative education at S.S.Seward Institute, a local K-12 school, and then Orange County Community College. He put his endless energy to good use as an athlete and shone in both basketball and soccer. Don was also an excellent student. He was a member of the honor society and participated in student government. After high school, Don answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Navy. He studied nursing throughout his service. Don actually enjoyed his time in the Navy, and he took full advantage of the opportunity to see the world. He was able to travel all around Europe, including Italy, Spain, and Paris.

New and exciting changes were in store for Don as he met Carol Pace, the woman who would soon become his wife. The two had dated mutual acquaintances but quickly became very interested in one another. A whirlwind romance ensured, and after just six months of dating and traveling around the country, Don and Carol got engaged. They were married in Dolliver Park in Fort Dodge, Iowa, in 1987. While Don was still serving with the Navy, he and Carol made their home in New York City and San Francisco. They continued sightseeing and traveling the world, visiting beautiful locations such as Mount Rushmore, the Florida Keys, and the Bahamas.

Once Don finished his service with the Navy, he stepped directly into the United States Coast Guard. He and Carol settled down in Big Rapids, Michigan, so that Don could attend Ferris State University, completing their dental hygiene program. Before long, Don’s family began to grow. He was overjoyed to become a father to his two daughters, Cora and Shannon. Don’s girls were the light of his life. He was a very active dad and loved doing everything with them, from playing basketball and riding bikes in the summers to sledding during the winters. Don also taught his daughters how to make do with what they had. He even helped them build a bookshelf out of scrap wood that the girls were very proud of. Don continued to serve in the Reserves while his children were growing up. When the family could get away, they enjoyed camping trips to Brower Park and vacations to Michigan Adventure, Cedar Point, and Mackinac Island. Although his marriage to Carol would eventually come to an end, Don was forever grateful for the gift of his girls.

All who knew Don can certainly agree that he was the kind of man who could talk to anyone. For many years, he worked as a telemarketer for a nonprofit organization supporting paralyzed veterans. Don excelled in that job thanks to his gift of gab. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, and no one remained a stranger for long.

In his free time, Don liked to stay busy. For a number of years, he tended to a vegetable garden to help provide for himself and his family. Don often visited garage sales in the area, collecting antiques and heirlooms to sell. He was an avid reader of James Patterson and Steven King novels, and he liked reading his Bible as well. Don passed his love for Scrabble and board games down to his daughters. Even as his health declined and he needed more support and care, Don never lost his friendly personality and curious nature.

As friends and family can surely attest, Donald Supenski lived big and loved unconditionally, living unapologetically true to himself. He could be depended upon to show up in a time of need. His deep intelligence showed through with an insatiable zest for learning. His legacy is one of strength, courage, and loyalty. Although he is already so greatly missed, Don will be forever remembered and cherished.

Donald Stanley Supenski, age 68, formerly of Big Rapids, passed away May 12, 2026 in Allendale, Michigan. Don is survived by his daughters, Cora Supenski of Sault Ste Marie, and Shannon Supenski of Kalamazoo; his brothers: Richard Supenski, Paul (Madeleine) Supenski of Marco Island FL, and John (Deb) Supenski of Florida, NY.

A private service will be held at Brower Park in Mecosta County, a place with special memories for his family.