Traverse City, Michigan - Donald T. Deering, age 97, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, at French Manor-Yorkshire Assisted Living Home with his daughter at his bedside.

He was born to George and Margaret (McGarry) Deering on February 18, 1928 and lived his entire life in Traverse City, Michigan. He attended St. Francis Catholic Schools and joined the U S Coast Guard before he turned 18 and served until the end of WWII. Don retired from the U.S. Post Office, and many will remember his smiling face at the service window on Union Street.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Robert "Bob" Deering, Patrick Deering; and sisters, Ruth Dent and Peggy Hemming. He is survived by his son, James (Aileen) Deering; his daughter, Linda (Deering) Enger, three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Don enjoyed vacationing in Florida, visiting family in California, and traveling all over the world on cruise ships with his son, who was a cruise ship director. He also enjoyed visiting casinos and local restaurants. He was a talented gardener and builder and lived his life in the two beautiful homes that he built. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, sailing the rainbow sailboat he restored, and feeding the birds and squirrels. Later in his life, he looked forward to his weekly dinners at Bob Evans with his daughter who lovingly cared for him. He will be remembered by his gentle nature, soft voice, and ready smile, and will be greatly missed by family, friends, and caregivers.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful caregivers at French Manor-Yorkshire who cared for him for more than two years.

A Memorial Service with full Military Honors will be held at 11 am on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St. Traverse City. Family will welcome visitors an hour prior to the service, starting at 10 am. Burial will be at Oakwood Catholic Diocesan Cemetery following the service.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Traverse City Chief Petty Officer's Association USCG, 1175 Airport Access Rd. Traverse City, MI 49686.