Donn Edwards

He was born July 29, 1951 in Iron Mountain, son of the late Wesley Thomas Edwards and Lenore (Kleiman) Edwards. Donny graduated from Florence High School in 1969 and was drafted into the United States Army. After his service Donny moved back to the area to join the family business Edwards Automotive.

Donny married Kathy Knudsen on March 8, 1975, just recently celebrating their 50th anniversary. Donny and Kathy built their home in Kingsford Heights and started their family welcoming three children.

Donny enjoyed the freedom of the open road and spent countless hours riding motorcycles, ATVs, boating, and camping. He was happiest on his bike feeling the wind and sun on his face. Donny also loved sports. He was an avid fan of the Flivvers, Wolverines, and the Packers. He was a committed golfer as well, and invested time trying to improve his game. He was very proud to share that he had a “hole-in-one” on each par three at Pine Grove Country Club! Most of all he enjoyed watching his grandchildren strive for success on the athletic field and musical stage. His grandchildren will remember his presence and support as their “Papa,” and also as a father figure to his granddaughter, Madelyn.

Donny is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kathy Edwards, of Kingsford; daughter, Kary Edwards and her daughter, Madelyn Edwards of Kingsford; son, Joshua (Samantha) Edwards and their children, Owen, Avery, Estella, and Alec Edwards of Kingsford; brothers, Dale (Rose) Edwards of Iron Mountain, Dan Edwards of Iron Mountain, and Jeff (Miriam) Edwards of Iron Mountain; sisters, Jean (Joseph) Panek of Aurora and Julie (Bruce) Ekstrand of Mesa, Ariz.; sister-in-law, Laura Broderson of Iron Mountain; brother-in-law, Jon (Wendy) Knudsen of Iron Mountain; several special nieces and nephews; and numerous friends, especially his furry best buddy, Marley.

Donny was preceded in death by his youngest son, Jacob Edwards; parents, Tom and Lu Edwards; and his younger sister, Jody Edwards.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 1, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Erickson-Rochon and Nash Funeral Home in Iron Mountain. A short service will follow at 6 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family who will donate all gifts to the “Flivver Field Legacy Project” and the construction of the new athletic field and track in Donn’s Memory.

Condolences to the family of Donn G. Edwards may be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.