With great sadness we announce Donald James Heikkila, age 69, of Detroit, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, November 10, 2022. Don was born December 5, 1952, in Rochester, MI, the son of Leslie and Marjorie (Carnes) Heikkila.

Don began his extensive career as an auto mechanic at Ford Assembly Line and then at AMC, Jeep and Renault as a prototype technician. He went on to successfully establish Don's Metro Autoworks in Redford. Soon thereafter, relocating to Detroit to open Brakes and More - where he continued to serve the greater Detroit area - and truly, anyone who needed a hand, with any and all things cars. He worked up until just two weeks ago, finishing his last car, and announcing his retirement.

He was skilled and valued in his field - so much so that he was sent to travel all around the world to learn new skills, test vehicles, and ensure cars were capable of withstanding great extremes. He was also a part of the team who helped manufacture the very first HUMVEE.

Don was a deeply spiritual man who took pride in his faith, his family and his many hobbies. As mentioned above, his passion for cars lead him to build and race his own racecars. In his earlier years, he was a PADI certified scuba diver, skied the Swiss Alps, traveled abroad, hiked waterfalls in Jamaica, and even once drove his motorcycle cross country.

Those who knew him in his more recent years would describe him as a man with a fantastic sense of humor, the best laugh, an animated storyteller - sound effects included, a man of great faith, and a man who loved his family more than anything else. Don also deeply loved his faithful dog, Papa - who knew Don's big heart for animals better than anyone.

When he wasn't working on cars, or spending time with his family, you could find him at church, or reading his bible, which he did daily - instilled in him by his late mother, Marjorie Orrin.

Don's love for his family surpassed all else - he is loved and cherished by his children, Barry Heikkila, Aliea (Rob) Veon, Cassie (Chris) March, Carey (Amanda) Heikkila and Jeffrey Heikkila (Lauren Haacke); his granddaughters, Ami Young, Levi Brooklyn Veon, and Phoebe June Heikkila; sadly leaving the love of his life and mother of his children Deborah Heikkila. He is also survived by his sister, Rebecca Heikkila; brother, Michael (Amy) Heikkila, sister-in-law Colleen Heikkila; numerous nieces and nephews; and his faithful dog, Papa.

He has been reunited in heaven with his mother, Marjorie Orrin, brother, Warren Heikkila and sister, Cheryl Barry.

While Don's presence will be deeply missed by all  - his family and friends intend to keep his legacy alive by staying true to Don's own words, "Forever keep the faith, love the Lord, and persevere."

If you wish to honor his legacy as well, you may donate to either of the following listed charities that were important to Don:

Alliance of Coalitions for Healthy Communities - ACHCMI.org

Hurley Dog and Cat Hospital - 15018 Livernois Ave, Detroit, MI 48238

The Heikkila family will receive guests on Tuesday, November 15, 2-8 pm, at the funeral home.

A funeral service will be conducted on Wednesday, November 16, 11 am, also at the funeral home.

Interment will immediately follow at Parkview Memorial Park Cemetery in Livonia.