Donald LeRoy Steinhoff, 91, of Traverse City, passed away on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at home. Donald was born on May 26, 1931 in Emporia, Kansas to the late Mervyn LeRoy and Norma (Rohweder) Steinhoff. He married Barbara Jean Edwards on June 27, 1953 in Platteville, Wisconsin. Don served his country in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1955. While in the Air Force, he attended Louisiana Polytechnic Institute in Ruston, Louisiana; was stationed at Selfridge Air Force Base in Michigan and was also stationed at A-9 in Nagoya, Japan. While in Japan he was attached to the Black Knights 17th Bomb Wing (L) where he became the editor of the unit paper, Knight Life. After his discharge, he completed his bachelor's degree at Wisconsin State College in Platteville, Wisconsin in 1956. He began his teaching career at East Detroit High School, where he taught English Literature and led the Yearbook until he moved his family to Mancelona, Michigan in 1968. He taught English, Journalism, Michigan History and led the yearbook at Mancelona High School until his retirement. Donald was very active in the churches he and Barb attended over the years and was strong in his faith. He enjoyed gardening and was known for his flower gardens. Don loved to travel especially with Barb, their children, and grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by many including his family, friends and caregivers.

Donald was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Barbara, his parents, and brother, Robert Steinhoff.

He is survived by his sister, Karryl Carlin of Wisconsin, and his children: Donald (Maureen) Steinhoff, Jon (Janet) Steinhoff, and Laura (Marvin) Best. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Michael (Heather), Bryan, Timothy, Jacob, Jason (Kristina), and Jennifer (Stephen) and six great-grandchildren.

A funeral service honoring Donald will take place at 11:00 a.m., with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, November 11, 2022 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1003 S. Maple St., Traverse City, Michigan 49684. Rev. Michael Goers will officiate. Burial will follow in Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.

Military Honors will be conducted under the auspices of the U.S. Air Force.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to Trinity Lutheran Church or Trinity Lutheran School, 1003 S. Maple St., Traverse City, Michigan 49684.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Don's family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .

The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.