Donald R. Selfridge's Obituary
Big Rapids - Donald R. Selfridge, Jr., 61, of Big Rapids, passed away Sunday, December 16, 2012, at his residence. He was born February 1, 1951 in Williamston, the son of Donald R., Sr. and Frieda E. (Klem) Selfridge, and graduated from Morley-Stanwood High School in 1969. Don earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business from Ferris State University in 1974, and a short time later started his career at Hanchett Manufacturing Company in Big Rapids. He began as a cost accountant, moved into sales, and eventually became president and co-owner. Don was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Big Rapids, and also a member of the BPO Elks #974. As a longtime active member of the Big Rapids Jaycees, he was instrumental in starting the fireworks program as a chief fundraiser. Don competed in Enduro motorcycle racing for several years, which included winning a state championship with his 100 cc Penton in the early 1970's. He was an avid golfer since high school and was a long time member of Meceola Country Club, and also enjoyed bowling. In August 2010, Don had the distinction of being chosen and honored as a cancer survivor by AFLAC National Crew of Courage. Don was inducted by NASCAR driver Carl Edwards (#99) and was honored at Michigan International Speedway, and was given VIP status and spent a race day with Carl Edwards and his pit crew. On August 22, 1970, he married Lynn L. Turner of Morley, who survives. Also surviving are their son Jamison Selfridge of Prudenville; grandchildren Ireland and Scotland; 4 sisters, Wanda "Jean" (John) Avey of Paris, Mary Jane Vogt of Big Rapids, Florence Selfridge of Stanwood, and Linda Wilcox; sisters-in-law Susan Turner Allshouse of Canadian Lakes, Penny Turner Lindsey of Farmington Hills; brother-in-law Scott A. Turner of Palm Harbor, FL; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, December 20, 2012, at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Big Rapids, with Rev. John Bookshaw officiating. Don's family will greet friends beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday at the church. Memorial contributions for the St. Peter's Lutheran School Endowment Fund in Don's memory may be left at the church or at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids
What’s your fondest memory of Donald?
What’s a lesson you learned from Donald?
Share a story where Donald's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Donald you’ll never forget.
How did Donald make you smile?