Donald James Hodgkinson

Donald James Hodgkinson of Caro, age 83, passed away on the morning of Monday, September 18, 2023 at his home, with his family by his side. Don was born February 8, 1940 in Wyandotte, the son of the late Chester and Louise (Julian) Hodgkinson. He graduated from Wyandotte High School and went on to serve in the U.S. Army for ten years. While in the service, Don was stationed in Vietnam and Germany. It was in Germany he met the love of his life, the former Erika Neuner. They were united in marriage on August 25, 1961 in Germany. Their marriage was blessed with over sixty-two years, two wonderful children, and countless memories. Don worked as a metallurgist for McLouth Steel in Trenton for over twenty years and then as a machinist at Engineering Tool in Caro until his retirement in 2002. He loved to fish on the Saginaw Bay for walleye and perch, deer hunt in Grayling, and was always up for a round of golf. Don enjoyed time spent with his son cutting wood and making sure there was a good stock pile for the winter. He adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and always cherished the time he spent with them. Don will be missed dearly.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Erika; son, Donald Chester (Shirley) Hodgkinson; son-in-law, David Farris; grandchildren, Corey J. (Camille) Hodgkinson, Joshua C. (Rivka) Hodgkinson, Crista N. (Jay) Hendges, Sierra Farris, and Mikayla Farris; great-grandchildren, Tzaddik, Baruch, Amittai, Emersyn, Reagan, and Astrid; siblings, Marie Kuciemba, Joe (Alicia) Hodgkinson, and Yvonne Hodgkinson; sister-in-law, Elaine Hodgkinson; many nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his daughter, Diana Marie (Hodgkinson) Farris; siblings, George Hodgkinson, Pat Williams, and David Hodgkinson.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 22, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro with Rev. Michele Hile officiating. Don’s family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday, September 21, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again on Friday from 1:00 p.m. until the time of his 2:00 p.m. funeral service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider planting a tree or memorial contributions to Promedica Hospice, 1171 South Van Dyke, Suites C&D, Bad Axe, MI 48413.