Donald S. Diezi, 87, of Dowagiac, passed away at 6:24 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011, at his home.

Donald’s life began on Feb. 20, 1923, in Chicago, the son of Stanley and Bertha (Luedke) Diezi.

He served his country in the U.S. Navy for three years during World War II. Donald married the former Betty Pearson on Aug. 10, 1941, in Manteno, Ill. They moved to Dowagiac in 1945.

Donald was very mechanical and could fix most anything. He became a skilled brick layer and later opened his own business — Diezi Construction in Dowagiac.

Donald loved fishing in the Florida Everglades, being a member and golfing at Dowagiac Elks Club and cooking, especially for his grandchildren.

He became a very skilled wood worker in his later years and made furniture for the entire family.

Donald also enjoyed “The Social Club” that was held in his garage with numerous good friends.

Donald’s great joy was his family which includes: his wife of 69 years, Betty Diezi of Dowagiac; one daughter, Donna (Frank) Pisarsky of Berrien Springs; three granddaughters, Jamie (Jason) Spenner of Berrien Springs, Jodi Walker of Mottville and Julie (Kevin) Mack of Dowagiac; and five great-granddaughters.

Donald is preceded in death by his parents and grandson Joseph Robinson.  His family will gather with friends on Monday from 11 a.m. until noon at Yazel and Clark Chapel, where his memorial service will be held at 12 led by the Rev. David Helmuth. He will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to Borgess Hospice.

Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Donald at www.yazel-clark.com <http://www.yazel-clark.com>.