Donald De La Mater

Donald Robert De La Mater, 82 of Niles passed away on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 in Spectrum Lakeland Medical Center in St. Joseph.

Donald was born on May 7, 1939 in Troy, New York to the late Clarence and Lena De La Mater.

Surviving Donald are his children; Debora De La Mater of Tennessee, Donna Nelson of Niles, MI, Denise (Mike) Grise of Cassopolis and Tweet “Dora” Lucik, his grandchildren; Marty, Lennie, Mandy, Joany, Danielle, Clayton, Levi, Michael, Dana, April and Ronnie as well as 15 Great grandchildren.

He moved from New York to Niles to manage the Rapid Car Wash.  He was known as the Lawnmower man on 13th St. where he had a small engine repair shop. Donald had retired from Bendix Corporation in St. Joseph, MI where he was a Machine Operator.  He belonged to the Niles Four Flags snowmobile club. He was also an avid hunter. He loved going to the races whether it was go carts or NASCAR. He cherished the time he was able to spend in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan at his property in Trout Creek. Donald lived there for quite some time and there always had an adventure waiting to be shared.

In keeping with Donald’s wishes, cremation has taken place.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services 615 E. Main St. in Niles.

Online condolences to the family may be made at www.halbritterwickens.com