Obituary of Donald Leroy Diedrich

Donald Leroy Diedrich August 25, 1949 – August 4, 2016 Donald Leroy Diedrich was born on August 25, 1949 in Monroe, Michigan. He was one of three children born from the union of the late Leslie Diedrich and the late Eleanor (Luft) Diedrich. Donald attended Jefferson High School where he lettered in basketball and served as Captain of his team. Donald worked in sales for more than thirty years. He was employed by Monroe Dodge and Allen Chevrolet for most of his career working with used cars. He took a medical retirement in 2006. For many years, Donald had volunteered as a youth coach for the baseball midget minor league. Not one to take his responsibility lightly, his mentoring changed the lives of many young people. Donald was also proud of his faith and enjoyed the opportunity to share it with others. He enjoyed woodworking often working on furniture and other trinkets. Another of his favorite pastimes was fishing. Much time was spent along the shores of Lake Erie in Bolles Harbor casting lines with his good friend Thad. Donald adored his pets, especially his dog Bella and several cats. He was blessed with a green thumb tending to his beautiful flowers and vegetable garden. He was well known for his great sense of humor, and his innate ability to become “The Life of the Party”. Donald Leroy Diedrich, age 66, passed away unexpectedly after a lengthy battle with cancer on August 4, 2016 at his home. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by a brother: James Diedrich. To cherish his memory he leaves behind three beloved daughters: Lori (Michael) Stolisov of Newport, Lisa Diedrich (Randy Baber) of Monroe, and Chelsie Diedrich of Monroe; former wife: Rosemary Diedrich of Monroe; three stepchildren: Shawna Fulner, April Fulner, and Kenny Fulner; a sister: Marcia Timmerman of Bloomfield Hills; eleven grandchildren: Emily Diedrich, Erica Diedrich, Evan Diedrich, Evie Diedrich, Brynn Stolisov, Gabriel Stolisov, Kaleb Fulner, Kyle Fulner, Heather Fulner, Hailey Fulner and Liam Fulner; and one great grandson: Benjamin Pyle. Private services have been arranged. Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe 14567 South Dixie Highway (734) 241-7070 has been entrusted with his arrangements. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Monroe County Humane Society. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefh.com and then selecting Add a Memory.