Donald James Reits

Donald J. “Don” Reits, 78, of Decatur, passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2020, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. A private gathering will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in Don’s name may be made to the Decatur Athletic Department or Decatur First Presbyterian Church. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.newellchapel.com. Don was born February 20, 1942, in Dowagiac, to Lyle and Margaret (Sikkema) Reits, Sr. He graduated from Decatur High School in 1960. On August 10, 1963, he married the love his life, and high school sweetheart, Carolyn Taylor in Decatur. Don worked at Upjohn’s in Kalamazoo for over 35 years before his retirement. He had a love for sports, he played football and baseball when he was in high school, and coached little league in his later years. Don was an avid Boston Red Sox and NASCAR fan. In his spare time enjoyed playing golf. Most of all he loved his family, who will all miss him greatly. Don is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn Reits; children, Todd (Becky) Reits, Michele Reits, and Kurt Reits; grandchildren, Alexandra (Kris) Reits, Krista (Jacob) Boone, MaKenna DeMeester, Brian Reits, Danielle Reits and Tyson Reits; great-grandchildren, Elena, Benny, Aiden and Jude; sister-in-law, Barbara Reits; brothers-in-law, Gary (Ardith) VanDenBerg and Lyle (Patsy) Taylor; and cousin, Doug Sikkema; and many nieces, nephews and cousins that all meant the world to him.