Donald Smith Allardyce

Donald Smith Allardyce, age 95, of Escanaba passed away Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at Bishop Noa Home in Escanaba. He was born June 17, 1929 in Saginaw, MI and was the son of James E. and Jenny “Donelda” (Smith) Allardyce. Don graduated from Saginaw High School in 1947 and then began his working career with Michigan Bell Telephone Company as a splicer. In 1951 Don was drafted into the U.S. Army serving in Japan as a teacher in communications until he was honorably discharged in 1953. He returned to Saginaw and started back with Michigan Bell. Don married the former Joan Damberg on August 8, 1953 in Saginaw, the couple raised four children, Kathie, Sandy, Wendy, and Diane and they moved to Escanaba in 1964. Joan preceded Don in death on June 13, 1966. Don married the former Suzanne Cathcart on February 22, 1969 at Central United Methodist Church in Escanaba. He retired from Michigan Bell as a Toll Tester in 1989. Don was a member of the Central United Methodist Church, a life member of the A.T.&T Pioneers of America, Escanaba American Legion Post # 82, and the National Rifle Association. He enjoyed target shooting, the outdoors, hiking, fishing, sailing, listening to music and he was very proud of his Scottish heritage.  He especially enjoyed the Honor Flight in 2014.

Donald is survived by his wife Suzanne, daughters Kathie Schoenheit of Escanaba, Sandra “Oggie” (William) St. Martin of Menominee, and Wendy (Tim) DeRouin of Escanaba; son-in-law Randy DeGrave of Escanaba; eight grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; brother Gordon (Carol) Allardyce of Novi, MI and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and first wife he was preceded in death by brother James R. Allardyce, daughter Diane DeGrave, grandson Mathew St. Martin and great granddaughter Kristen Gromoske.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Monday, October 21, 2024 at the Anderson Funeral Home in Escanaba. Delta County Veteran’s Council services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Monday at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel with funeral services celebrating the life of Donald Allardyce to follow with Rev. Lewis Hugue officiating. A luncheon will be served following the funeral services in the Ludington Room located at the Anderson Funeral Home. Burial will take place in the Gardens of Rest Cemetery. The Anderson Funeral Home is assisting the Allardyce family with the arrangements and online condolences can be sent to the family at www.anderson funeralhomes.net.

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