Donald "Don" Hotke, of South Lyon, Michigan, passed into eternal life on Monday evening, November 24th, at his home, held deeply in the love of his devoted wife, Lori. He was 74 years old. Don's passing came only weeks after a pancreatic cancer diagnosis on September 7, a journey he faced with quiet courage, faith, and grace.

Born January 9, 1951, in Detroit, Don was the cherished son of the late John and Mary (Hayes) Hotke. He graduated from Dearborn High School in 1969 and went on to attend Western Michigan University, shaping the early foundation of a life defined by curiosity, intelligence, and an unquenchable spirit of adventure.

Don married his beloved wife, Lori, on December 26, 2021, in Ann Arbor. Their marriage was a gift—an unexpected and profound love that blessed them both. Lori often said, "I never believed one person could bring me such happiness, or that two hearts could share such a deep connection." Together, they embraced life fully—traveling, exploring, laughing, praying, and creating a beautiful life rich with memories.

He is survived by his loving wife of four years, Lori; his beloved children, Becky (Tim) Doran and Jeff Hotke; and his cherished grandchildren, Locke, Braiden, Jake, Juliet, and Jack. Don was preceded in death by two wives—Debbie (Gard), with whom he shared 17 years of marriage, and Terri (Klapperich), with whom he shared 19 years—as well as his sisters, Carol (Bill) Varga and Judy Garvin. He leaves behind Lori's sons, Cameron and Cody Church, as well as Scott Varga - a nephew who was like a son to him.

A man of devotion, Don's family was the heart of his world. He was a wonderful, loyal, gentle, generous, and loving father, grandfather, and husband—always attentive, always caring, and never stopping his watchful eye over his children even long into their adulthood. He loved his grandchildren deeply and took pride in every accomplishment, every milestone, every moment.

Don's love of adventure carried him across the world, especially to the sacred paths of Spain. Over the past decade, he completed four pilgrimages along the Camino de Santiago—an experience that became woven into his soul. In 2023, Lori had the blessing of walking the Camino by his side, sharing the quiet beauty, the challenge, the joy, and the deep spiritual resonance that made the Camino a place Don cherished above all others. As Lori said, "The Camino leaves a passion in your heart that doesn't leave." For Don, that passion became part of who he was.

Deeply religious and filled with a reverence for history, art, and faith, Don and Lori treasured their travels to Europe's spectacular cathedrals—places where Don found both awe and peace. His faith was steady and profound. He loved the Lord.

Don was also a lifelong fan of the Detroit Tigers and a proud supporter of the University of Michigan, especially their football team—cheering loudly, faithfully, and often joyfully spontaneously.

Those who knew Don remember his compassion, his kindness, and his willingness to help anyone who needed a hand. He had a quick and delightful sense of humor—sharp, witty, and delivered with perfect timing. Lori will miss that "quick-witted man" forever.

He loved chocolate—especially Cadbury milk chocolate from Europe. He loved hiking—especially the Camino. He loved companionship, friendship, and laughter. He loved travel, spontaneity, positivity, and every opportunity to learn something new or see something beautiful. He carried insight, wisdom, and a warmhearted gentleness that made people feel safe, supported, and genuinely cared for.

Above all, Don loved his family, he loved the Lord, and he embraced this world with gratitude and wonder. His life was full of adventure, faith, and love—love he gave freely and love he received abundantly.

Family and friends may gather for visitation at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in downtown Farmington on Thursday, December 4, from 2-7 pm.

Don's funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday morning, December 5, at 10:30 am (in state 10:00 am) at St. Patrick Catholic Church 711 Rickett Road, Brighton.

Don's family have planned a luncheon at the church to immediately follow his funeral mass. For planning purposes, please let a member of Don's family know if you will be in attendance.

Don's legacy lives on in the hearts of those who cherished him. He walked through this life with purpose, with humility, with courage, and with joy. And now, after a remarkable earthly journey, he has walked his final Camino home.