Donald Darrow

With a wink and a grin, we bid a fond farewell to Donald LaVerne Darrow, a man who never let life's curveballs get the better of his sense of humor. Born on May 29, 1937, in the bustling city of Kalamazoo, MI, Don departed on life's ultimate journey on February 6, 2024. A witty man of many talents, Don spent his professional career as a machine operator in the high-octane world of automotive parts manufacturing. He was a man who got his gears grinding, not just in the factory, but also on the golf course, the softball field, and even while mowing the lawn. He was an overall sports fanatic who especially loved watching and listening to football and baseball games. Don was a dedicated husband to his wife, Nanalee, whom he married on September 10, 1958, and they spent many happy years together in their beloved home in Martin, Michigan. Never one to be idle, the always-creative Don found joy in farming, snowmobiling, and watching tractor pulls. He was a generous man with his time and love, and nothing in the world mattered more to him than his wife, his family, and his cats. Mark Twain once said, "Humor is mankind's greatest blessing," and Donald embodied this sentiment wholeheartedly. His wit and charm were infectious, and he always managed to find a way to make those around him smile. Don is survived by his loving wife, Nanalee; children Deborah (Tree) Darrow, Donald (Stacey) Darrow, Timothy (Jennifer) Darrow, and Leanne (Jerry) Hill, who will always remember their father's generosity, creativity, and dedication. Don loved playing with his 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his 2 brothers, Dick (Julie) and John (Nancy) Fahrne, and multiple nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He is preceded in death by his mother, Frances Fahrne, who is surely greeting him with open arms in the great beyond. In the words of the late great Groucho Marx, "I intend to live forever, or die trying." While Don may not have achieved eternal life, his spirit and humor will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. So, let's raise a glass to Don, a man who loved a good joke, a well-mowed lawn, and most of all, his family. Don's family would like to extend a special thank you to Centrica Care Navigators for their help throughout this difficult time. Gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. until Noon at Martin United Methodist Church, 969 E Allegan St, Martin, MI 49070, with a memorial service being celebrated at 12:00 p.m. (noon) and a luncheon to follow. We encourage everyone who knew Don to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page. His life was filled with laughter, and we hope his memory will continue to bring joy to others. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Donald Darrow, please visit our flower store.