Donald D. Schepel, 82, of Sun City Center, FL died on Thursday, June 26, 2014 at Hospice House Woodside in Pinellas Park.
He moved to the Florida from his native Holland, MI in 1979. He retired from Big Dutchman, Inc. after 50 years as Vice President of International Sales and Marketing. Donald was an inventor with three patents. He enjoyed sailing, golfing, and was a member of Sun City Center Sports Car Club.
He was preceded in death by his grandson, Aaron Ziel. Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Ann; two sons, Kevin of Rockport, TX and Dennis of Holland, MI; two daughters, Marla Ziel of Hudsonville, MI and Lisa Morrissey of Clearwater, FL; stepson, Jeff Van Dyke of Grand Haven, MI; two stepdaughters, Cherie Denslow of Mecosta, MI and Dawn Martin of Charleston, SC; brother, Paul of Holland, MI; sister, Lois Carlson of Holland, MI; 14 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Suncoast Hospice Foundation, 5771 Roosevelt Boulevard, Clearwater, FL 33760, http://www.thehospice.org. Reference Mid-Pinellas Care Center.
Please sign the guestbook below.
What a shock to hear about Don! Ann we are so sorry!!
We have the people that bought your home as guest this weekend. They bought the house back for retirement days, they liked it so much when they lived here.
We also have the Spittles here for the weekend because of MJ Rice’s passing. Bob Rice & Dick Spittle are half brothers.(same mother)
Hugs, Betty & Ken Gavin
Ann…So sorry to hear of Don’s passing. He was such an asset to our Stonebridge community here in Riverwood. Know you are missing him, but pray that wonderful memories help you through this difficult time. Our sympathy & prayers for you & all your family. Joan & Bob Shaffer
Ann & Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We have many fond memories of Don. He was a wonderful man. You are in our prayers.
Lovingly,
Terri & Ralph
Wonderful fun memories we will always remember of the times we all had together here in Riverwood.
God Bless you Ann and your family With love Bonnie and John Goss
Ann – I’m so sorry to hear about Don. He was a great guy and we in Stonebridge really valued the work he did for us. My sympathy, Loren Matasek
Dear Ann,
So sorry to hear about Don’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this stressful time.
Pat & Ron
Kevin. We were sorry to hear about your fathers passing. We know you and your family will miss him but rejoice in knowing his suffering has ended. Please accept our condolences and we look forward to seeing you soon.
My StepDad, Don Thankyou for all of your advice and Love over the years. I Loved you as much as I Loved my own Father. Of course, you were the one to talk to with problems and for good advice. Mom is missing you, and I know that you are with Her.
You were funny, almost silly at times..Loved spending the past 5 Christmas’s with you and Mom. Lisa’s family, as well.
I’ll miss you deeply, and have Cherished memories of time spent, with you. We Love You, Dawn..and Lou
Don was a terriffic and loving spouse to Mom, a great father, grandpa. He was always willing to listen the our thoughts, problems and gave us guidence when needed it. He was always caring and loving with all of us, we will miss him terribly and remember him in our hearts and minds till we once again are joined with him.
Don will be remembered by many for his brilliant mind and ability for creating his many inventions. He traveled to many countries, saw first hand the hostilities of countries we will never understand. He saw the greatness and wounders of the world in which he traveled.
May God bless him and be with him always as we will some day.
Don and Ann, You brought us to Florida after we married in 1994. It was so wonderful to see Don and Denny connect while building AJ Products. We have so many wonderful memories with the two of you. Lots of laughter and great meals! Don was a “one of a kind man” who loved you with all his soul, Ann. We will certainly miss him. Prayers are with you daily.
Love, Denny and Barb