Donald Eugene Cornwell, 92, of Buchanan, passed away July 14, 2022 at Riveridge Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center. He was born April 5, 1930 in South Bend to Margie and Clarence Cornwell.

Don is survived by his wife of 71 years, Elizabeth "Betty" (Kline) Cornwell and their 4 sons: Mark (Marge), Tim (Karen), Todd, and Chad (Renee), 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Don was a proud graduate of Washington Clay High School in South Bend where he excelled at basketball. Soon after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served admirably in both active and reserve duty until he moved his young family to Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Although he had a variety of jobs early in his career, he was always drawn back to the supermarket industry where he was a skilled butcher. Don eventually retired in 1996 as co-owner of Cornwell's Super Valu. After spending many winters in Florida, they returned to Buchanan full time. Soon after returning, he was offered a position at his old store working part-time at Lowery's Meat & Grocery. He continued working until just shy of his 90th birthday when the pandemic brought his career to an end.

In his spare time, Don was an accomplished wood worker having built many pieces of furniture for his beloved Lofty Pine Acres. He also fancied himself as a gentleman farmer with an eclectic variety of animals over the years.

Don never knew a stranger. As a longtime member of Buchanan Christian Church, he served a variety of rolls from Deacon to greeter. He also enjoyed many fun events at The Buchanan Senior Center, but always looked forward to playing Euchre on Mondays. He was the only guy who could call trump on an ace & nine and make it every time!

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Stepfather Guy "Pappy" Welch, and brother Archie.

Visitation will be held from 4 - 7 pm on Monday, July 18, 2022 and 10 - 11 am on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at Buchanan Christian Church, 112 W. 3rd St, Buchanan, MI 49107. Funeral service will begin at 11 am on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at Buchanan Christian Church. Military Rites will be conducted by American Legion Post 51. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Buchanan.

Memorial donations may be made to Buchanan Christian Church, 112 W. 3rd St., Buchanan, MI 49107. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan, MI. To leave an online condolence, please visit https://www.hovenfunerals.com

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 17, 2022.

07/17/2022 JFC