Donald L. Budzynski

Donald L. Budzynski, 73, of Harbor Springs, died March 21, 2025, at McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital.

Don was born on April 11, 1951, the son of Edwin and Phyllis (Tousain) Budzynski. He graduated from Petoskey High School in 1968.

He married Julie Drabik in Paradise, Michigan, and together they started a family, raising their two sons Colin and Kyle, and were happily married until her death in 2010.

As a young man, Don worked at the Penn-Dixie cement plant, until he was hired at Birchwood Golf and Country Club shortly after they opened in 1984. He worked as a maintenance tech until his retirement in 2024, and even after he’d often come back to give advice or consult on a tough project.

In his spare time, Don enjoyed golfing, gardening, and fishing. He also liked watching TV and action movies. Don and Julie especially loved taking their family on day trips to the Upper Peninsula to visit their favorite attractions, such as Tahquamenon Falls, the Soo Locks, and Pictured Rocks. He will be remembered for his tough but loving nature. He knew how to work hard but also how to relax and have a good time with those he loved most.

Don is survived by his sons Colin (Colleen) Budzynski of Harbor Springs and Kyle (Aday) Budzynski of Brutus; grandchildren Benjamin Budzynski, Samuel Duncan, and Emmalee Duncan; siblings Jack Budzynski and JoAnn (Martin) Kocher; nephews Bill Kocher and Shad Budzynski; and niece Renee Kocher.

He was preceded in death by his wife Julie; and parents Edwin and Phyllis Budzynski.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Stone Funeral Home, Petoskey.