Donald L. Ellison, age 68 of Stanwood, passed away Friday, March 4, 2016. He was at home, surrounded by his family. Don was born March 9, 1947 in Lakeview, the son of Donald E. and Darlene J. (Crame) Ellison. He graduated from Morley - Stanwood High School in 1965 and later that year enlisted in the Army National Guard; Don served over ten years before he was honorably discharged. He married Sandra Kay Hall on September 25, 1971 and together they made their home in Stanwood. Don began his working career in construction and truck driving before taking a job at the Mecosta County Road Commission, retiring after 24 years. Don was an active member of his Community. He served on the Mecosta - Austin Fire Department; he was a Michigan First Responder for Mecosta County; he led the Tri-State Medical Dive Rescue Team for the American Power Boat Association; and he enjoyed working staff for bull riding events. Don loved everything about nature and the great outdoors; he was also a talented woodworker.Don had attended the Woods Free Methodist Church in Stanwood for many years. He is survived by his beloved family including his wife Sandie Ellison; son Chad (Jessie) Ellison of Lambertville, MI; three daughters, Marcie Ellison, Monica (Ed Clemons) Ellison, Melissa Ellison all of Stanwood; grandchildren, Malick Clemons, Dajanai Huxtable, Elijah Houston, DeShawn Graves, Aniyah Graves, Alayah Graves; brother, Larry Ellison of Stanwood, Mother-in-law, Eleen Hall of Morley and several nieces, nephews and cousins including Sandy Carey of Stanwood.Don was preceded in death by his parents.Funeral services will take place 1:00 p.m. Monday, March 7, 2016 at the Woods Free Methodist Church in Stanwood with Pastor Ron White officiating. The family will greet friends on Sunday March 6th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids and one hour prior to services at the Church on Monday.Burial will be at the Stanwood Cemetery.Memorial contributions in Dons name may be given to his family to help with the many medical bills. Share a memory or condolence with the family at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Funeral Service Monday, March 7, 2016 01:00 PM The Woods Free Methodist Church 7486 Stanwood Drive Stanwood,MI 49346