Donald E. Gilpin

Donald E. Gilpin, 91, passed away at 3:40pm on Sunday, July 18, 2021, in Tanglewood Trace.

Don was born on January 18, 1930, in Mishawaka to the late Anthony and Hazel (Dunn) Gilpin. On January 7, 1950, in South Bend, Don married Rosemary A. (LaFree) and she passed away on January 14, 2016. He was also preceded in death by sister, Reva Imbro; and brother James.

Don is survived by daughters, Beverly (Gary) Harman, Nancy (Mark) Richards, and Julie (Chuck) Botchuck; 6 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

Don was a carpenter his entire career, building many of his family’s homes, with his daughters by his side. He owned his own construction company and ultimately retired as a union carpenter. He built a memorial gazebo at St. Jude’s Catholic Church.

Don was honored to serve in positions with Cleveland Township Lions Club as well as district and state levels. He often wore shirts saying “Lion Don” that Rosemary embroidered for him.

He and Rosemary loved to travel. They visited all 50 states and several countries, enjoying all 130,000 miles they drove in their motorhome.

Visitation will be 4-6 PM on Wednesday, July 21, 2021, in Palmer Funeral Home – Guisinger Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 AM on Thursday, July 22, 2021, in Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Lakeville. Burial will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, 63568 U.S. Highway 31, South Bend, IN 46614.

Condolences for the family my be made at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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