Donald Robert Breadon

Donald Robert Breadon, 82, of Traverse City, passed away Friday, September 18, 2026, at Munson Medical Center with his loving family at his side.

Don was born on July 9, 1944, in Mount Clemens, Michigan, to the late Albert Robert and Sarah Elizabeth (Wilkins) Breadon. Following high school, he continued his education at Ferris State University and Lake Superior State University, ultimately earning his MBA.

Don’s love story with his beloved wife, Elizabeth, began long before they were married. They grew up as neighbors. Their lifelong friendship blossomed into love, and the two were married on June 17, 1967, in West Branch, Michigan. They lived in Elkhart, Indiana, before moving to beautiful Northern Michigan and making Traverse City their home. Together, they lovingly raised their two children, Tamara and Donald, and built a beautiful life centered around faith and family.

Don was a man of tremendous faith and integrity. Nothing came before the Lord, and he approached everything in life with dedication and a desire to do his very best. His relationship with God was an important part of each day, and he spent two hours every morning reading the Bible and deepening his faith. He was actively involved with his church.

Along with his faith, Don’s greatest happiness came from his family. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who took a genuine interest in the lives of those he loved. His grandchildren brought him tremendous joy, and he was always eager to hear what they were doing and to be part of their lives.

An excellent craftsman, he was skilled in woodworking, electrical work and seemingly anything he set his mind to. He even built his own home. He enjoyed sailing, especially with his son, and loved spending time on the water.

Professionally, Don spent his career working as a Certified Public Accountant and found great satisfaction in helping others. His commitment to serving his community extended far beyond his work. He was a devoted member of the Rotary Club of Traverse City and achieved an extraordinary 52 years of perfect attendance.

Don was equally dedicated to Peninsula Township, where he served as Treasurer for more than 20 years.

Don and Elizabeth also shared a wonderful sense of adventure and a love of travel. Don was always ready to go wherever Elizabeth wanted to explore. For their 25th wedding anniversary, they traveled through Europe, including England, France, Ireland and Scotland. Their 50th anniversary was celebrated with a family cruise, one of many adventures they enjoyed together throughout their marriage.

Above all, Don will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful servant, loyal friend and dedicated Rotarian. He lived his life with faith, integrity and wholehearted devotion to the people and causes he loved. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth; his children, Tamara (Eric) Miller and Donald (Yoshiko) Breadon; grandchildren, Aaron (Saralyn) Miller, Patrick Miller, Joshua Miller, Zechariah Breadon and Elliot Breadon; siblings Mary Bragg and Edward (Irene) Breadon; and many other loving family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Mona (Durf) Durfee, Carol (Eugene) Piar, Marjorie (Andre) Day and his brother-in-law Kenneth Bragg.

Funeral services honoring Don’s life will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at City Church in Traverse City, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Peninsula Township Cemetery.