Don Gary Meixner, age 83, of Three Rivers, Michigan, passed away peacefully at his home on March 15, 2026.

He was born on June 25, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of William and Anna (Medley) Meixner. Don graduated from Inland Lakes High School with the Class of 1960. In his younger years, he lived on the east side of Michigan, where he built a long and dedicated career working for Ford Motor Company’s Livonia Transmission Plant, retiring after more than 40 years of service.

On April 4, 1992, he married Julia Smith. Following retirement, Don and Julia eventually settled in Three Rivers, Michigan, where they spent the past eight years enjoying a quieter pace of life.

Don was a proud member of the Michigan United Conservation Club and served as president for two years. A true outdoorsman, he loved hunting, fishing, and camping, and he took great pride in teaching his children and grandchildren the skills and appreciation of the outdoors.

He was known as a hardworking man and a gifted teacher. Whether mentoring pipefitting apprentices at work or helping family members learn how to fix things around the house, Don always enjoyed sharing what he knew. His patience and knowledge made him someone many people looked up to.

Don had a fun-loving and mischievous sense of humor that those who knew him will never forget. He loved good food and was a devoted Tabasco fan, often carrying a bottle with him in a special “Tabasco belt” so it was always within reach. He enjoyed listening to the Kingston Trio and spending time working on race cars.

He was affectionately dubbed “Don Dolittle” because animals of all kinds—from birds to cats and dogs—seemed naturally drawn to him. Children were drawn to him as well, perhaps because he remained a “big kid” at heart. Don was also known for joking about his own big stature and fondly commenting whenever he met someone “big” like himself.

Above all else, Don cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and an amazing grandfather who loved being involved in the lives of his grandchildren and sharing stories, lessons, and laughter with them.

He is survived by his loving wife, Julia Meixner of Three Rivers, Michigan; his children: Laura (Scott) Cole, Sara Meixner, Paula Meixner, Donna Meixner, Renata Meixner, Jonathan Meixner, and Corey (Erin) Cantwell; his grandchildren: Sam, Liam, Teghan, Samantha, Aidan, Donovan, Mykaelis, Avita, Gavin, Chidubem, Sebastian, William, Susannah, Amelia, Anna, and Jaxson; and his great-grandchildren: Emmett and Arkyn. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Anna Meixner, and his brothers, William and Edwin Meixner.

In accordance with Don’s wishes, cremation has taken place.

 Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, MI 49093 have been entrusted with Don's care. 

Please visit www.rayfuneralservices.com to gather and share in Don's memory.