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Friday, March 7, 2025
3:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)
Saturday, March 8, 2025
Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Donald Edgar Lehman passed away on January 29, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by his family. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, mentor, and neighbor, Don’s kindness and wisdom brought comfort to all who knew him.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Shirley, and his four children: Deborah E. Povich of Freeland, MI; Donald M. (Duke) Lehman of Westland, MI; Douglas E. (Laura) Lehman of Napa, CA; and Dr. Deanna L. (Michael) East of East Lansing, MI. He was immensely proud of his six grandsons: Brady (Brittany) Lehman of Grand Ledge, MI; CJ and Casey Povich of Freeland, MI; Jacob Lehman of Santa Barbara, CA; and Calin and Stefan Lehman of Napa, CA. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law James (Kay) Bruderick and Terry (Sally) Bruderick of Minden City, MI, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Don was predeceased by his parents, Delos and Gladys Lehman; his brother and sister-in-law, Delos and Marge Lehman; his sister and brother-in-law, Gloria and Don Blazo; and his son-in-law, Craig Povich. His absence will also be deeply felt by the family’s beloved cat, Tiger.
Don was born on May 2, 1937, at Saginaw General Hospital in Saginaw, Michigan, to Delos and Gladys (Gillick) Lehman. Don grew up in the Saginaw area and graduated from Arthur Hill High School with the Class of 1955. He went on to attend Olivet College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a teaching certificate in 1961 and later obtained his master’s degree from Central Michigan University. Don dedicated his career to education, teaching at Lyons-Muir Elementary, Potterville High School, and Clio Middle School before settling in Bridgeport, MI, in 1965. He served as a Middle School Counselor at Bridgeport-Spaulding Middle School for 30 years, impacting the lives of countless students before retiring in 1995.
On August 20, 1960, Don married the love of his life, Shirley (Bruderick), at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Palms, MI. Together, they shared 64 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in family, faith, and community. They were devoted members of Faith Lutheran Church in Bridgeport.
In his younger years, Don found joy in small game hunting in Michigan’s Thumb region and fishing on St. Joseph’s Island with his sons and best friends Marvin Boersma, Jerry Foley, and David Logan. In retirement, he enjoyed breakfasts and long talks with his best friend, Tom Stalsberg. Don had a quick wit and a love for practical jokes, always finding joy in sharing laughter with his friends and family.
A lifelong learner, Don was an avid reader of World War II history, politics, and the Bible. One of his greatest joys was walking in the woods with his grandson, Brady. A dedicated sports enthusiast, Don was a loyal fan of the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Detroit Red Wings, and Michigan State Football. A cherished memory was attending Game 5 of the 1984 World Series at Tiger Stadium with Shirley, Douglas, and Deanna, where the Tigers secured their championship. He was also a longtime member of the Bridgeport Gun Club.
Don’s family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the many kind and thoughtful neighbors who supported him in his final years, with special gratitude to William Niedrich, whose frequent visits brought Don great comfort and companionship.
Visitation with the family will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, from 3:00 p.m.—8:00 p.m. at W.L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 5700 Dixie Hwy, Saginaw, MI 48601. A funeral service will take place at Faith Lutheran Church, 4241 Williamson Rd, Bridgeport, MI 48722 on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with entombment to follow at the Oakwood Memorial Mausoleum, 5950 Gratiot Rd, Saginaw, MI 48638. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Lutheran Church.
Please share your thoughts and memories with Don’s family at the visitation and service, or by visiting www.casefuneralhome.com.
Friday, March 7, 2025
3:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)
Dixie Highway
Saturday, March 8, 2025
Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Faith Lutheran Church
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