Donald E. Kailing, lifelong resident of Big Rapids, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, January, 28, 2021. He was born March 3, 1936, the eldest son of Edward and Mary (Mattzela) Kailing. Don was also known affectionately as "Duck" by his family, friends, and community. He was a 1956 graduate from Big Rapids High School. Don then attended Michigan State University studying Agriculture. He enlisted in the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1960. Don married the former Sandra Wilber on April 15, 1961, in the old Saint Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids where they also raised their family. He was a generous man that cared about his family and community. Don was a founding member of the Big Rapids Township Fire Department in 1984. He earned his builders license which encouraged him to become a Master Plumber. Don began his own business, DE Kailing Plumbing and Heating. He was later employed at Ferris State University working in the plumbing department until his retirement. Don was a member of the Home Builders Association in Big Rapids and the Paris Trail Blazers Snowmobile Club. He was also a lifelong member of Saint Mary Saint Paul Catholic Community. Don was a man of many talents. He was an exceptional woodworker. After his retirement, Don bought a sawmill to keep himself busy. He enjoyed spending time with family and playing cards. Don also looked forward to his morning coffee with friends at VanBrocklins. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Don is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Sandra Kailing of Big Rapids; one daughter Doneen (Kevin) Cole of Evart; six siblings, Norman Kailing, Madelyn (Jerry) LaForge, Carol (Gordon) Oliver, Duane (Jessie) Kailing, Marilyn Cope, Gary (Rosemary) Kailing all of Big Rapids; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Denise Kailing, and sister-in-law Barbara Kailing. Mass of the Resurrection will take place 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at Saint Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids with Father Michael Burt and Father Dan DePew concelebrating. The family will greet friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, February 1st and one hour prior to Mass Tuesday, all at the CHURCH. Due to COVID-19, the family asks that all who attend please wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines. The Kailing family will be greeting friends from the pews at the church; although they would appreciate your hugs and handshakes, please refrain from those at this time. Your presence and words are what they need now. Memorial contributions may be made in Donalds name to Saint Mary Catholic Church or the Big Rapids Township Firefighters Association, PO Box 1078, Big Rapids, Michigan 49307. Arrangements and care entrusted to the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Sign the virtual guestbook, share a memory or a picture on Dons guestbook at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Mass of the Resurrection Tuesday, February 2, 2021 11:00 AM St. Mary Catholic Church 1009 Marion Ave Big Rapids,MI 49307 Visitation Monday, February 1, 2021 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM St. Mary Catholic Church 1009 Marion Ave Big Rapids,MI 49307