Donald J. Grant

Donald J. Grant, age 93, longtime resident of Plymouth, passed away October 7, 2020. He was born on November 17, 1926 in Detroit, Michigan; son of Alexander and Mary (nee Grassick) Grant.  Donald graduated from Cass Tech High School in Detroit; Class of 1944.  Following graduation, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps and proudly served his country during WWII.  After an honorable discharge from the military Donald became a member of the Phi Kappa Upsilon fraternity, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering from Lawrence Tech; Class of 1950. He was united in marriage to Barbara M. Williams on October 31, 1953; they spent 51 loving years devoted to one another until her death on June 8, 2005.

Donald worked as an Engineer for Ford Motor Company for over 35 years.  A majority of his career was spent at Livonia Transmission, he retired in 1986.  Donald, a Mason, was a life member of Northwood Ancient Craft #551 in Madison Heights. He was an avid bowler and participated in the Livonia Transmission Bowling League at Woodland Lanes in Livonia for over 50 years, a few of which he served as secretary.  He played in a Livonia Transmission golf league, as well on a baseball team.  After retiring, he enjoyed playing golf with his wife, Barbara, and friends at various courses in the area.

Donald enjoyed gardening and took great pride in caring for his home.  He maintained a pristine yard where he grew and cultivated beautiful flowers, landscaping, and fruit trees including apples, plums, and cherries.  At Christmas time, he was one of the first extreme decorators, making fixtures and hanging hundreds of lights to decorate his yard.  Ultimately, he won a Homeowners Association award for his decorations. Until recently Donald kept very active by going to the gym three times per week; he kept his mind sharp with daily crosswords, Sudoku, and Jeopardy.  Donald’s greatest joy in life was spending time with family.

Donald is survived by his loving sons, James Grant, Todd (Janet) Grant, and Richard Grant; and his grandchildren, Nathaniel and Lindsay.  He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara Grant, his parents, and his brothers Gordon Grant and Charlie Grant.

Private family services held. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Humane Society of Huron Valley , 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.