Donald Kelner

Donald Joseph Kelner, 87, of Mancelona, Michigan passed away on Wednesday, June 18, 2014. Don was born in Langdon, North Dakota on August 3, 1926 to Nellie and Jacob Kelner. At the age of 16, Don graduated from high school in Northville, Michigan and enlisted in the Merchant Marine, serving in the Atlantic Theatre during WWII. He later served his country during the Korean War, and was stationed in Korea in 1951 and 1952, where he attained the rank of Master Sergeant and earned a Combat Infantryman's Badge. In 1948, Don joined the Ford Motor Company where he met his bride Marilyn Andrews of Monroe, Michigan. Don and Marilyn were married on March 9, 1951 and enjoyed 63 years together. Don and Marilyn settled in Trenton, Michigan and raised three children - Ward, Andrea, and Julie. Don was with Ford Motor Company for 38 years, retiring in 1986 as Controller of the Livonia Distribution Center. After retirement, Don and Marilyn moved to the Schuss Mountain/Shanty Creek Resort , where they have lived for the last 17 years. Don greatly enjoyed retirement, playing tennis in the summer and downhill skiing in the winter. He passed on his passion for skiing to the rest of his family. Don skied until he was 83, accumulated several NASTAR medals, and was a member of the "5 Mountain Club" having skied 5 different ski resorts in one day with the other members. He enjoyed many great friendships over the years, and especially cherished time spent with his two grandchildren. Don also enjoyed gardening, cooking, rooting for the Tigers, cars, jazz, and a good dry martini. He talked to his sister Marjorie on the phone every day. Don is survived by his wife, Marilyn Kelner; Children - Ward Kelner (Laurie Dowling), Andrea Keefer (Brian), and Julie Kelner; Grandchildren Emily and Margaret Keefer and sister Marjorie Kelner. Don is predeceased by his oldest sister Lillian Kelner. The family will receive friends Sunday, June 22, 2014 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bellaire Community Food Pantry, P.O. Box 252, Bellaire MI 49615 Please sign his guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com