Donald Charles Cavanaugh, aged 72, passed away November 28th surrounded by his family. He will be deeply missed by many. He was reunited with his daughter Joy Slachter. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 52 years, Sharon (Koprowski), children Kevin (Michael) Cavanaugh, Amy (Jill) Murphy, Patrick (Betsy) Cavanaugh, Amanda (Dennis) Gracey, Bridget (Brian) Flint, Ryan (Angie) Cavanaugh, Ethan (April) Cavanaugh, Beth (Francisco) Gonzalez and Adam (Julie) Cavanaugh and "special son" Garth Anderson and wife Lynn. His grandchildren Lauren, Collin, Tara, Austin, Logan, Nicholas, Dalton, Brady, Jack, Luke, Liam, Andie, Isabela, Leila, Rocco, Gabriel, Amelia, Elliott and Sebastion. He was the oldest child born to Donald and Stella Cavanaugh. He is survived by his siblings Pat Troeger, M.E. Barwacz, Michael (Kathy) Cavanaugh, Shelia McCann, Colleen Lafontsee, and Terese Flickinger. With his selfless service in the United States Air Force as a crew chief on a B-47 bomber, Don's strong work ethic was passed onto his children. He was devoted to his family and church. He loved to play cribbage with his kids, and spending time with his 19 grandchildren. He was the pillar of the Cavanaugh family, and has left a legacy in his passing. After being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer a family friend came to visit Don while in the hospital. He told Don, "you are a rich man." The meaning of rich was not materialistic, but rich in genuine love. Love for the kids and wife he sacrificed so much for. His family would like to thank Spectrum Hospice for all the support and tender care through this journey. The entire staff was so kind to Don and the Cavanaugh family. Special thanks to Brian, Emily, Brenda, Carol, Rachel and Pam. Don said it best, "I've had a great life, I'm 72 years old, a wife of 52 years, 10 children, and 19 grandkids. I wouldn't change a thing." Funeral services will be held Saturday 11:00 am at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church with Rev. Troy A. Nevins as celebrant. Interment Pine Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the Zaagman Memorial Chapel (2800 Burton St. SE) Friday 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm with a Eulogy at 7 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Spectrum Health Hospice.

Published in Grand Rapids Press on November 29, 2012