Donald G. Therasse MD's Obituary
Donald Gregory Therasse, MD, age 66, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, February 13 surrounded by family at his home in Spring Lake, Michigan. Born August 13, 1955, he was raised in the Detroit suburbs and attended North Farmington High School, graduating in 1973. He enrolled at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Pharmacy and subsequently a Doctor of Medicine. He met the love of his life, Patricia, while working at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor. They married in May of 1982 and moved to Seattle where Don completed his residency training in internal medicine at the University of Washington. Don accepted a position in Research and Development at Eli Lilly & Co. in Indianapolis, the beginning of a 26-year career where he also served as Head of US Medical Affairs, Vice President of Global Medical Affairs, and Vice President of Global Patient Safety. He was instrumental in establishing the bioethics committee at Eli Lilly, a pioneering feat in the pharmaceutical industry. Don’s achievements include over 30 publications, the Eli Lilly Chairman’s Ovation Award, and the Alumni Distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award from the University of Michigan College of Pharmacy. However, the countless close relationships he forged during his career brought him more pride and joy than any professional accolades. During this time at Eli Lilly, Don and Pat raised their children in the wonderful town of Zionsville, IN where they made some of their most cherished memories. Retirement brought Don and Pat to Spring Lake, Michigan where they enjoyed all that lake living has to offer. He always opened his home to friends and family for boating, fishing, a perfect steak on the grill, and the right Cabernet with which to pair it. Don was an avid golfer and continued playing the game years into his illness. During the winter months, he and Pat ventured to Hilton Head for a respite from the Michigan snow (and to play more golf). Don will be deeply missed and leaves behind his wife, Patricia; children Christopher (Ashley) and Michelle (Curt) Longcore; five grandchildren, Parker, Cooper, Lia, Jack and Connor; and sisters Denise and Diane. He is preceded in death by his parents, George and Jeannine, and his brother Douglas. The family will be welcoming visitors to honor Don’s life at The Lee Chapel of The Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St. Norton Shores, MI 49444. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 17 from 6-8pm and Friday, February 18 from 10-11am. The funeral service will be held Friday, February 18 at 11am with a luncheon to follow. Memorial contributions in Don’s memory may be made to Tunnel to Tower Foundation.
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