LOUIS DANIEL DONAJKOWSKI

Louis Daniel Donajkowski, a life-long resident of Alpena, Michigan passed away at the age of 92 on Sunday, July 23, 2023. He was born on Sept. 5, 1930 to the late Stephen and Johanna “Della” (Wieschowski) Donajkowski. Louis served as a PFC in the US Army, 8th infantry Division, 6th Infantry Regiment, during the Korean Conflict.

On Oct. 16, 1954, Louis married the love of his life Clara Zielaskowski at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Alpena, Michigan by Right Rev. Msgr. John Gatzki.

Louis was employed by Abitibi in Alpena, Michigan for 33½ years, retiring in 1992. He was a member of St. Mary’s Church of All Saints Parish, a Third-Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 529, and a life member of the VFW Post 2496. He was a caretaker for many years of several acres of property. Louis loved hunting deer and small game along with fishing on his pond. He shared his skills in outdoor sports with his children and grandchildren. In retirement, he used his woodworking talents to gift his many projects to everyone in the family. Another favorite hobby was watching deer, birds and squirrels in the back yard while he and Clara put together 1,000-piece puzzles in just a couple of days. It was hard to keep them supplied with puzzles! He also enjoyed playing with and entertaining his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving Louis is Clara, his loving wife of 68 years, three children, Stanley (Brenda K) Donajkowski, of Pinconning, Michigan, Catherine Frey of Pinconning, Michigan., and Louis (Brenda S) of Alpena, Michigan. He is also loved by nine grandchildren, Margaret (Luke) Pasnik, Ashley (Gordon) Kemmerling, Earl (Christina) Donajkowski, Daniel (Ashley) Donajkowski, Trisha (Kevin Kloster) Donajkowski, Kellie Donajkowski, Jeffrey Frey, Jennifer (Daniel) Lorentzen, and Justin (Renee) Frey, great-grandchildren, Louis “Cash” and Stoic Donajkowski, Clara Jane Kemmerling, Evelynn and Leo Lorentzen, Emma and Rowan Kemmerling, Collin and Constance McGrath, Sasha and Callan Kloster, Hunter Pasnik, and Lachlan Donajkowski. He is also survived by a sister, Mary (Stanley) Brandenburg. He was preceded in death by brothers, Robert, Clemens, David, Leonard, and Raymond, and sisters Rose Bruski, Martha Swiecicki, Rita Wetzel, Virginia, and Barbara Donajkowski, and son in law, Gary Frey.

Per Louis’ request, cremation has taken place and a private graveside service will be at Holy Cross Cemetery with Fr. Charles Donajkowski as Celebrant. Karpus Hunter & Ross Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements. Anyone wishing to make a memorial contribution in Louis’ name may do so to the charity of their choice. Online condolences may be registered at karpushuntercares.com.