Donald C. Stern, 69 years old of Bad Axe, passed away on Friday, October 10, 2025 at McLaren Bay Hospital, with his family by his side. Donald was born on June 18, 1956 to the late Donald Stern and Donna (Lash) Stern in Bad Axe.

Don attended Bad Axe High School and was a graduate of the class of 1975. He was employed at Active Industries from 1976-2017. He was also a member of Thumb Sportsman's Club from 1994 to the present. He was the first elected President in 1995, and he served on and off several times in different member roles with several terms as President. Don was a committee chairman of the NRA, and he could often be seen helping at the fish fry's at the Rapson Sportsmen's Club.

Following in his Grandfather's (Chief Chester Lash) footsteps, he joined the Bad Axe Fire Department on September 1, 2001 and retired on December 1, 2022.

Don also enjoyed hunting, fishing, farming and helping with youth trainings at Thumb Sportsmen's Club.

He is survived by his siblings; Patricia (David) Matta, Chris Stern and Terri Orban; his nieces and nephews Melissa Matta, Jason (Yvette) Matta, Matt Chicoineau, Ryan (Lindsay) Sensenig, Tori (Derek) Platte, Zach (Hunter) Orban; great nieces and nephews Rylie, Tyler, Addison, Braedyn, Sierra, Kirra, Islea, Josie, Cam, Harlyn, Grayson and Remi.

Along with his parents, Don was also preceded in death by his sister Lori Sensenig.

Visitation for Donald will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 from 2:00-8:00 pm at the MacAlpine Funeral Home, in Bad Axe.  A Fireman's service will be held at 7:00 pm.

Memorials in his name may be offered to the family in care of Terri Orban.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.macalpinefuneralhome.com