Donald Metzger Obituary

Donald Delos Metzger, 91, of St. Joseph passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, at the Whitcomb, St. Joseph.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 28, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 9650 Church St., Bridgman with the Rev. Dr. Douglas Krengel officiating. Family and friends may gather one hour prior to the church service from 10-11 a.m. at the church. Burial will be in the Galien Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be made at www.PikeFH.com.

Donald was born on Feb. 6, 1934, in Galien and was the last of six children born to Raymond and Eleanor (Luther) Metzger. From a young age he had a love for the outdoors, and after graduating from high school was excited to follow his father's footsteps into farming. On Feb. 27, 1960, he married the former Janice Ott at Immanuel Lutheran Church. They were happily married for 42 years until her death on March 12, 2002. He had a few lonely years until he met and married Colette (Rigdon) Erickson on June 12, 2005, at Trinity Lutheran Church. They spent 16 years together until her death on Oct. 10, 2021.

Don was a farmer in Galien working many acres of land and always willing to share his knowledge and experience with others. He enjoyed monitoring the progress of different crops throughout the seasons, which also included frequent visits with his farmer friends. Some of his favorite past-times included polka dances, playing bingo and especially putting puzzles together. His favorite treat was a "twist ice cream" in a cup from Dairy Queen.

Survivors include his nieces and nephews: Cynthia Moynihan, Stephen Lentz, Karen Weich, Joyce Berry, Larry Metzger, Colleen Bollivar, Father John Scheer, Mary Lange, Jim Scheer, Carol Scheer and three stepdaughters: Lisa Reilly, Jayne Toering and Julie Suchanek.

Donald was preceded in death by his siblings: William Metzger, Richard Metzger, Lucille Scheer, Meryle Gillespie and Wanita Lentz, and his nephews: Ronald Metzger and Everett Scheer.

Don had a wonderfully long life. He was loved and will be missed by all of us.

Arrangements are entrusted to Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, The Boyd Chapel, 9191 Red Arrow Highway, Bridgman.