Donald Alexander Cheyne

M, #359, b. 3 April 1933, d. 19 June 2008
FatherAlexander Cheyne b. 31 Jul 1904, d. 16 Aug 1951
     Donald Alexander Cheyne was born, 3 April 1933, in Royal Oak, Oakland, Michigan, USA.1,2

Donald Alexander Cheyne married Grace Patricia O'Neill 10 June 1955, in Berkley, Oakland, Michigan, USA.

Donald Alexander Cheyne died 19 June 2008 in Royal Oak, Oakland, Michigan, USA.3

His funeral was held 23 June 2008 at Berkley Community Church in Berkley, Oakland, Michigan, USA. His funeral was officiated by Reverend Peter S. Carlton. The program contained the following: "Remembering Donald A. Cheyne. Don was born to Alexander and Dorothy Cheyne on April 3rd, 1933 at the Sunnybrook Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan. Don was the eldest son followed by Hervey in 1941 and Tom in 1943".
     When Don was 16 years of age he became an apprentice automotive mechanic and worked in that field until he enlisted in active duty for the US Army on December 4th 1951. Don served during he Korean conflict and spent the majority of his time in Germany. He received an honorable discharge from the military on November 9th 1954.
     Ten days later he met Grace Patricia O'Neil who agreed to share the rest of her life with him on December 24th of that same year. They were married June 10th 1955 and became parents of Don in 1955, Dave in 1959 and John in 1964.
     Various jobs carried the young family until 1960 when Don was hired by Williams International in Walled Lake, Michigan. He served Williams with 37 years of dedication, holding positions in jet engine development and testing. He also provided field support, troubleshooting and repairing equipment in the Arctic Circle as well as Vietnam. While at Williams Don's amateur photography skills steered him to Industrial Photography which he practiced until his retirement in March of 1997.
     Meanwhile, Don and Pat's family were growing. All three of their boys were married and had children, amounting to twelve grandchildren and one great grandson for Don and Pat. They are all an immeasurable blessing.
     Don kept himself busy during retirement, helping friends, family and enjoying trips and special moments with his bride of 53 years. He shared words of wisdom with those who sought them; He brought a smile and a laugh for those who waited. Don was blessed with some of life's greatest gifts, especially family and friends. He overcame the many challenges he faced, becoming a model of strength and courage for those around him. Don will be remembered for his unconditional love shown to his family and friends".3

Donald Alexander Cheyne was buried, at Cadillac Memorial Gardens, in Clinton Township, Michigan, USA..3

Family

Grace Patricia O'Neill b. 26 Mar 1933, d. 13 Mar 2010
Child

Citations

  1. [S573] Records of James W. Cheyne in Arizona, Date of birth and names of parnets from Rememberence Card from his funeral, in the possession of the author.
  2. [S588] 1940 US Census, Clawson, Oakland, Michigan; Roll: T627_1803; Page: 1B; Enumeration District: 63-150.
  3. [S259] Miscellaneous Records, Rememberence Card from his funeral, in the possession of the author.