Donald B. Cruise

Donald B. Cruise passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 10 at Brian's House in Bay City, Michigan beside his loving wife and daughters. A strong and spirited man even until the end, he fought a short and courageous battle with cancer. Don was born on June 5, 1933 in Grant, Alabama to Fred Solomon and Gertha Cruise but called Michigan home for most of his life. Don had a great career in insurance, working for AAA, and operated offices all over the state. He spent his later years making the most of his time as a skilled woodworker, avid golfer, and chief chocolatier at Heather 'n Holly. Prior to his long professional career, he served his country with pride in the United States Air Force. He married Shirley Jean Hamilton on January 3, 1953. Don was a loving and supportive brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, not to mention, a great friend to many. He is survived by his wife of 59 years; three daughters, Karen (Jack) Bileth, Pamela (Aaron) Gallagher and Laurie Cruise; six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at Zion Lutheran Church on Friday, July 13, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. Officiating will be Rev. William H. Allwardt with private interment in Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI. Visiting hours are between 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday at Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. Don will be taken to the church on Friday to lie in state from 10:00 am until the time of services. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be sent to Zion Lutheran Church, Bay City, MI. www.gephartfuneralhome.com