Donald “Don” Richard Knox, 72, of Washington, MI went to be with the Lord on April 7, 2020. He passed peacefully at home in the loving care of his family after a fierce battle with cancer.
Don was born on May 28, 1947 in Grosse Pointe, MI to parents John and Mary Knox. Raised in Warren, Don graduated from Warren High School where he enjoyed being a member of the swim team. In 1967, Don served in the United States Air Force. While stationed in England, he fell in love with the British culture and his future wife, Pauline (Wilson). They married on January 31, 1970 and returned to Michigan shortly after, where they lovingly raised their four children Brian, Scott, Amanda, and Ashley.
Don was a wonderful and caring Father that would selflessly give anything to his family. He cherished family time, from road trips to playing cards at home. He was always a supportive Husband and Father who led by example as a kind, humble, and gracious man with a great sense of humor. Don loved golf, billiards, swimming, spy novels, and watching his kids play sports/dance. Molasses cookies were his favorite, and he always enjoyed a good movie! He embraced his and his wife’s Scottish heritage with travels to Scotland and was a big fan of the Scottish Bagpipes. One of his favorite memories was attending the Edinburgh Tattoo.
Don was an honorable, hard-working man who was proud to be a part of Detroit’s auto industry for nearly 50 years. He was rich in family love, as well as the love of friends. He made friendships over the years that may have not been family, but were brothers by choice. He was so grateful for the gift of the relationships he had throughout his life.
In retirement, Don and Pauline have thoroughly enjoyed spending their winters golfing in Florida. Don was a great coach, and Pauline his #1 student! They have been fortunate to share the company of lifelong friends in Florida while making wonderful new friendships as well. One of Don’s greatest joys in retirement was spending time with his grandkids. He was a very special Papa and was adored by his three grandchildren.
Don and Pauline recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. What a beautiful life they built and shared together. Don loved dearly and was dearly loved.
He is survived by his wife Pauline, children Brian Knox, Scott Knox, Ashley Knox, Amanda Knox Caveney (Jeff Caveney), grandchildren James, Benjamin, and Charlotte.
Don was preceded in death by his parents John and Mary, and brothers John Jr. and Steven Knox.
A memorial at Mount Holly Cemetery will be arranged at a later date. We look forward to welcoming you all to celebrate the life of a true gentleman, and give him the send off he truly deserves.
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Mr. Knox was an amazing man. Known as “Papa Knox” to my children, he always made us feel like family and we will forever cherish all of our memories of him. He will be missed terribly. Our thoughts and prayers to the entire family. We love you all so very much.
So many special and fun memories with Don and the entire Knox family. He will be greatly missed. Hugs to each of you.
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Rest In Peace friend
What an amazing person Don, our brother in law was. We will miss him so much. I always liked conversations with him he really listened what you had to say. He was such a caring man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love to you all . Ann and Jim, Kris, Amy, Courtney and Ryan.
My heart goes out to your beautiful family. So many great memories with you all. May your hearts be at peace and filled with all of his loving memories.
Scott, I’m so sorry for your loss, I have to believe your dad was one great man, simply based on the way he helped raise you. If you need anything at all, I’m here for you, brother! May he Rest In Peace.
Our hearts are broken at the loss of our dear friend Don. We cherish our 50 years of friendship and love. Words cannot express our sadness for your loss. We loved Don and will miss him terribly.
Dear Pauline and family, Steve and I were sorry to hear about your sad loss of Don .
He was a lovely man and was taken far too soon , you are in our thoughts and prayers .
God Bless Barbara & Steve
Dear Pauline, Brian, Scott, Amanda, Ashley and families,
Wishing you all many moments in the months and years ahead of wonderful, cherished memories of Don and the deep love he had for you all. He will be dearly missed and we have him and all of you in our thoughts and prayers.
With deepest sympathies and love,
David and Annie Knox
Looking back, we fondly remember many great times with Don. A trusted friend and always a gentleman, he welcomed us into his inner circle of friends and we cherish the memories we shared with him, his dear Pauline, Ashley, Scott, Brian, Amanda & Jeff and the lights of his life…his Grandchildren James, Benjamin and Charlotte. He was rightly proud of his family. Don, you were one of the few and we miss you terribly. God speed.
With our deepest sympathy and everlasting love,
Janet and Gordon
Dear Pauline and Family, I worked with Don at Chrysler Engineering in the 65 66, and 67 year over at Dodge Truck. He was in my Department Chassis. I remember him to be a very gentle and kind man. I am very sorry for your loss.
Marie (Pellerito) Marzella