Donald E. Veale

He was the son of Robert J Veale and Rachel M Thompson Veale. Don graduated from Negaunee High School in the class of 1946, then worked for Cleveland Cliffs for 41 years. He retired in January 1988 from the District Laboratory and built a retirement home overlooking Mehl Lake. From 1950-1952, Don played with the 5th Army band during the Korean Conflict. Don was able to attend the Honor Flight on September 21, 2016, which was a highlight of his recent years. Thanks to many that made this opportunity possible. Don also played with the Negaunee City Band for 65 years. He was a life member of the Negaunee Masonic lodge 202, Francis M. Moore Consistory and Ahmed Temple Shrine Band playing trombone. He was a life member of all units. Highlights of the summer were fish frys with the family and hunting in the fall, and at the deer camp with nephews and friends. Don was the “Designated Hunter” at deer camp. A term meant that he was a very successful hunter year after year and made camp fun for the younger generations. Don also enjoyed boat rides and sitting with his wife Bess overlooking activities on the lake. Don also enjoyed in his younger years, woodworking, boating, and swimming with his son Greg. Don also enjoyed many excursions with Greg in his Jeep Wrangler. The most recent was 3 days ago going for a ride out to the family deer camp. He also enjoyed the companionship of several wonderful dogs throughout the years. Always enjoying lunch dates, shopping and just visiting. Don always enjoyed telling a good story or hearing or telling a good joke. He always tried to have a good sense of humor and often said, “When I die, just say Don Veale died. Trombone for sale. No service.”ù Don sang with the Gwinn Methodist Church Choir for many years, and always considered the choir one big happy family. During retirement, Don also enjoyed many bus trip tours with Lane Dawson called Debbi Tours. Don was loved by many and he touched many lives. He will be missed by all. Don often said that he had a good life and was blessed.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Robert T Veale, and William J (Doris) Veale. Survived by his wife Bessie Luke Veale, son Greg Veale, sister-in-law Ada Veale, and many cousins and nephews

The family will receive relatives and friends at the Gwinn United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 14, beginning at 11:00 am until the time of service at 12:00 noon. Pastor Mark Harriman will officiate. A light luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.

Interment will be made in the Negaunee Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Don’s two favorite organizations, Negaunee City Band or UPAWS. Checks made out to Negaunee City Band can be sent c/o Peggy Clark , 1104 Cooper Lake Road, Ishpeming, MI 49849 in memory of Don. Checks made out to UPAWS can be sent to UPAWS, 815 South State Highway M-553, Gwinn, MI 49841 in memory of Don.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com