Obituary of Donald Lee Hipkins

Age 66, formally of Flint, MI, passed away Monday, February 13, 2017, in Rose City, MI. Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service celebrating Donald’s life will take place at Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services of Mt. Morris, on Tuesday, February 21, 2017, at 12:30 pm, Rev. John Montney officiating. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 10:00 am until the time of service at 12:30 pm. Burial will take place, following the memorial service, at Great Lakes National Cemetery. Don was born December 3, 1950, the son to Robert and Delores (Burns) Hipkins of Flint. He served bravely in the United States Army, fighting in the Vietnam War from 1970-1972. Don's lifelong love was Mother Nature. Those who knew and loved Don all have memories of hunting and fishing with him to cherish. He is survived by three brothers: Richard (Sue) Hipkins of Vassar, Robert Hipkins of Flint, and Dennis Hipkins of Flint; three sisters: Sharon (Clyde) Cooper of Clio, and Anne (Ron) Cooper of Tawas, and Pamela Hipkins of Hazel Park, daughters: Dianna Panos of Auburn, Indiana and Shannon (Eric) Newman of New Lothrop, sons: Richard Emerick of Vallejo, California and Chad Emerick of Whitelake: 13 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends. Donald was preceded in death by his mother Delores, father Robert, daughter Dawn Hipkins, and son-in-law George Panos.