Was a gift to his parents. Born on May 31,1935 to Dr. Edward Rotarius and Colette Chateau.
He went to be with his Lord and Savior at 6:45 PM on April 8, 2024.
Don grew up in Detroit and Grosse Pointe Woods. He attended St. Matthew Catholic Grade School and then went on to graduate from Annunciation High School, but not before he went on to spend one semester in the seminary. He quickly realized that being a priest may not be his calling. After high school, Don went into the army and was honorably discharged. After the army, Don met Judee Bruske. Fell in love and together they had two sons and one miscarriage along the way. Later on, Don met his longtime companion Barbara Going whom he adored as well.
He spent 37 years at AAA Insurance Company before he retired. Thought he might play more golf but quickly learned he had no golf skills. It wasn't long after Don got bored and started a career with Bon Secours/Beaumont Hospital as a security guard. He stayed there until he retired permanently.
Don is survived by his sons; Joseph Sr. (Peggy), Timothy (Caroline). Grandchildren; Heather, Paige Lash (Drew), Adam, Jake and Joseph Jr. Greatgrandchildren; Emma, Jack, Ford and Lainey. Sister; Mary Colette Chapp (Larry). Sisters-in-Law; Threse Genest (Joe), Diane Rogers. Don was preceded in death by his mother and father; brother; Edward Jr. and sister, Lois Ann.
There will be a visitation for Don on Friday from 3:00 to 8:00 PM at A. H. Peters Funeral Home located at 32000 Schoenherr Road, Warren, MI 48088. A Rosary will be said for Don at 7:00 PM.
He will lie instate on Saturday at 9:30 AM at St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church located on 13 Mile Road in St. Clair Shores, MI., until the time of his funeral Mass at 10:00 AM.
Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, MI.
In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Don's Favorite place, The Mt. Elliot Monastery for the Province of St. Joseph of the Capuchin Order (DBA) "Solanus Casey Center", 1820 Mount Elliott St., Detroit, MI 48207.
Thanks for the memories, Dad & Grandpa.
We love you, your family.
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