Donald L. Reeves

Donald passed away Monday, January 22, 2024 surrounded by family. He was born on October 29, 1929 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the son of Edwin and Wilma (Newhouse) Reeves. He enlisted in the United States Army on January 24, 1947 and was honorably discharged in June of 1948. 

On November 14, 1947 he was united in marriage to Marguerite L. Vandenberg who preceded him in death in 2015. 

Don worked at the Upjohn Company for 44 years, starting as a janitor and worked his way up through the pipe shop as a journeyman, supervisor, and eventually to Welding Inspector. He was chosen to receive the W.E. Upjohn Award in 1984. Don passed on his love for the skilled trades to many of his sons and grandchildren. 

Surviving are his 6 sons, David (Gerry) Reeves of Portage; Richard (Pamela) Reeves of Portage; Joel (Peggy) Reeves of Williamsburg, VA; Donald Reeves of Schoolcraft; Paul (Janie) Reeves of Three Rivers; and Bill Reeves of Kalamazoo; 12 Grandchildren; 13 Great-Grandchildren; 1 Great-Great Grandson: and several nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his brother, Edwin Jr. and sister, Marilyn Baney. 

Friends may meet the family from 10:00-11:00am on Friday, January 26 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, 411 East Centre, Portage, MI 49002 where funeral services will be held at 11:00am. Private entombment will be in Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park South. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to Centrica Care Navigators (formerly Hospice of Southwest Michigan – Rose Arbor). To view Don’s personalized webpage please visit https://www.langelands.com