Dr. Donald Lee Wilton's Obituary
Dr. Donald Lee Wilton D.D.S, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and decorated veteran, passed away peacefully at home on December 30, 2024, surrounded by family in Spring Lake, Michigan. Born on August 2, 1940, to Helen and Woodrow Wilton in Saranac, Michigan, Don grew up immersed in small-town life, playing football and enjoying hunting and fishing with his father.
A proud graduate of Saranac High School, Don’s pursuit of excellence led him to Grand Rapids Junior College, Western Michigan University, and ultimately the University of Michigan, where he earned his degree in dentistry in 1966. "Go Blue!" was not just a cheer for Don, it was a way of life.
After graduation, Don enlisted in the United States Navy, entering as a Second Lieutenant and later rising to Lieutenant Commander. Expecting to serve on an aircraft carrier practicing dentistry, Don instead found himself stationed with the Marines on the front lines of the Vietnam War from July 4, 1967, to April 1968. Traveling from base to base, Don provided critical dental care to fellow soldiers and local villagers under the harshest conditions. During one such relocation, his jeep was shelled, leaving him severely injured. Don returned home unable to walk but was fortunate to recover with time. Donald was deeply honored to have served his country, earning a Purple Heart, and additional commendations for his bravery and sacrifice.
In October 1970, Don married Margaret “Kay” Bishop, beginning a 54-year partnership filled with love, resilience, and countless cherished memories. Together, they built a home—an iconic Yankee barn—with Don’s father, a project that held a special place in his heart. They settled in Grand Haven, where Don opened his dental practice in 1969, dedicating over 50 years to providing gentle, compassionate care to his patients. Known as “Doc” in the community, Don’s calm demeanor and unwavering kindness left a lasting impact on generations of families.
Don and Kay raised four children, and though he was an incredible father, his true calling came as a "Papa." His love for his grandchildren was legendary—he was their biggest cheerleader and unwavering supporter. Whether attending school/sporting events, sharing fishing trips, taking them to lunch at Did’s Deli or simply laughing together, “papa” made every moment magical. A highlight of Don’s later years was his October 2023 Mid-Michigan Honor Flight with his grandson, Jackson Tisdale. The journey was a long-overdue homecoming, filled with new stories shared with his family and the recognition he deserved for his service 50 years ago. It was a memory he cherished deeply.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, grandson, Noah, and beloved son, Mark. He is survived by his devoted wife, Kay; daughters, Ann (Toby) Tisdale and their children, Jackson, Weston, and Maya; Melissa Wilton, wife of his late son, Mark, and their children, Parker (Chandler), Madelynn, Gabriella, Isabella, Nathaniel, and Benjamin; daughter, Jennifer (Richard) Ross and her children, Courtney (David), Carter, Emma (Koby), Wyatt, Aiden, Kristen, and Elaina; great-grandchildren, Kooper, David “Bean,” Ellis, Noah, and Wrenlee; and son, Christopher (Susannah) Wilton and his children, Riley, Lexie, Julia (Matthew), and Noah; great-grandchildren, Brooke and Liam. He is also survived by his two sisters, Carol and Tammy; sister-in-law, Pam; numerous nieces and nephews, and an extended network of family and friends who will forever feel his absence.
Don's family wants to send a special thanks to Trinity Health at Home – Grand Haven for their compassionate care and support. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight or Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, causes close to Don’s heart.
Don’s life was one of service, love, and resilience—a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A Memorial Celebration will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 1 – 4 p.m. at the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post # 28 in Grand Haven, 700 S. Harbor Drive, Grand Haven, MI 49417. Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
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