Donald L. Bemis

Donald L. Bemis was born on February 6, 1935 in Detroit, Michigan. Donald was the son of John and Lucy Bemis and younger brother of Dorothy Scripter. He is survived by his children John Bemis (Michelle), Kathryn Bemis, Paul Bemis (Kristin), and Jennifer Bemis-Leathers (Michael) along with 13 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Donald spent his life serving his community. He enlisted in the army and served during the Korean War repairing telephone lines in Germany. Once he came home, he continued his education and earned his bachelor's degree in Education from Wayne State University. Don married the love of his life Chelsie and started their life together in Warren, Michigan. He and Chelsie owned a women's dress shop and soon after was hired by Utica Community Schools. He began his teaching career at Sterling Junior High in 1960 teaching history and English. Furthering his education, he headed back to school earning his Masters in Educational Administration at the University of Michigan. This afforded him the opportunity to move into the role of counselor at the junior high, assistant superintendent of personnel, and finally named Superintendent of Utica Community Schools where he served for 18 years. During this time, Don and Chelsie raised four children: John, Kathryn, Paul and Jennifer. They loved their children dearly and they took great pride in raising them on Grant Park Blvd in Utica. Don loved helping people, but he particularly loved improving the lives of others. He put the community in Utica Community Schools. He blended education, business, and community service into a seamless operation to improve the lives and education of all the children in UCS. After 18 years as Superintendent of UCS, he was appointed Michigan State Superintendent of Public Instruction. After retiring from public service, he moved into the private sector as an investment banker. Don enjoyed working with communities to help them pass bond issues. His vast knowledge and innovative thinking helped to improve the lives of children in schools throughout the country. To the outside world, he was "The Don," but to his family he was simply "Dad" and "Grandpa." While he had a passion for his community, nothing could surpass his love and commitment for his family. Don spent his later years travelling with his friends, visiting his children and grandchildren across the country, as well as attending many of his grandchildren's school events. He was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church and a decades long member of the Trinity board of directors. Don created a lasting legacy for his community and his family. He will be greatly missed, but his love lives on. Visitation Sunday February 18th from 12:00p.m - 7:00 pm at the Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Home, 8459 Hall Road (3 Blks E. of Van Dyke) Utica. Instate Monday February 19th from 10:00 am until the time of the Funeral Service 11:00 am at Trinity Lutheran Church, 45160 Van Dyke Ave, Utica. To watch a Don's funeral service live online please follow this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQL4-tdH2EI In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Utica Community Schools Foundation, 7600 18 Mile Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48314, or at https://ucsfoundation.org/donations/. Please leave a tribute or share a memory at www.SullivanFuneralDirectors.com

Donald L. Bemis

February 6, 1935 - February 13, 2024