Donald James Thayer, 72 of Traverse City died Tuesday, October 4, 2022, with family by his side. He was born December 19th, 1949.

He enjoyed collecting plants, going on nature viewing drives, feeding people, sharing stories of his early days in Florida and taking many walks along the shoreline to collect Petoskey stones to use in his wooden artwork. Don was a good neighbor and friend to those around him. He referred to himself as "an old hippy" and was a gifted brick/block layer contributing to the building up of Traverse City. Don loved his family and had a special place in his heart for his three granddaughters.

Don is survived by his beloved friend and mother of his children Ruth Getzen, their daughters Rachel Gyrling and Bonnie (Tim) Troxel as well as his grandchildren Hanna, Sarah and Rebekah. His siblings are Sharon, Mike, Betty and Helen. He is preceded in death by his parents Everett and Elizabeth (Boals) Thayer and siblings Richard, Floyd, Ronald, and MaryLou.

Near the end of his life Don wanted family to write down this statement "Trust God, believe in yourself and be patient, because of Jesus".

A graveside service will be held at Yuba Acme Township Cemetery (9700 US-31, Williamsburg, MI 49690) at 1:30 pm Tuesday, October 11th. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share memories with the family.

In lieu of sending flowers please donate to Hospice of Michigan in memory of Don for the loving care they gave him.