Obituary of Donald Anthony Dattner Jr.

Donald Anthony “Donnie” Dattner Jr. was born on July 13, 1964 in Detroit, Michigan. He was the oldest of two children born to the union of Donald Anthony and Linda (Ballard) Dattner Sr. Donnie attended Airport Community Schools in Carleton, Michigan. For many years, Donnie operated DMTA, a computer repair company and he taught guitar lessons through Penguin Music.

Donnie had an extreme love for all types of music.  There was no denying that Rock and Roll music took the lead, with Van Halen and all of the 1980’s “hair bands” being his favorite. He was a self-taught guitarist, playing lead guitar in several bands like Toxin Haste, Satin Sire, and Avengers - who in 1987 won Monroe’s Battle of the Bands. 

A very artistic man, Donnie enjoyed making homemade guitars, writing songs, putting his own touch on everything, or building whatever he could with his hands.  “Grampy” as he was known by his beloved grandchildren, was his most valued title. He even made or bought each of them their own guitar, with the hope they would fall in love with the sound of music as he did. There was nothing more that he enjoyed than spending time with his family.   Even though at times Donnie went through life’s struggles, his strong faith in God sustained him and allowed him to overcome many obstacles. He cared for others unconditionally with a huge loving and giving heart. Donnie often left loved ones notes of encouragement and snacks to brighten their day. Donnie loved the gentle and peaceful glow of a burning candle, and always had one lit. To know Donnie was truly to know genuine love.

Donald A. “Donnie” Dattner Jr. age 59 of Newport, Michigan passed away peacefully on Thursday; June 6, 2024 at Medilodge of Taylor with his loving mother by his side. His passing was preceded by his father: Donald Dattner Sr, Barry Whisler, whom Donnie considered a brother; and two aunts: Pat and Marie Brown.

To cherish Donnie’s memory he leaves two daughters: Angel (Tony) Ellison of Monroe and Theressa (Bobby) Poupard of Monroe; a son: Michael Dattner of Flat Rock, Michigan; his mother: Linda Dattner; a sister: Sandie (Eric) Rumbaugh of Toledo, Ohio; seven grandchildren: Madalynn, Annabelle, Amelia, Bobby, Audrey, Davian, and Waylon; and two special nephews; Joshua (Sherilyn) Rumbaugh and Jeremy Rumbaugh.

Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 6:00pm on Friday; June 21, 2024, at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe, 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Donnie’s Life will be held at 6:00pm also at Merkle’s with Pastor Pansy Heath of I am Church in Monroe officiating. There will be a celebration of life gathering to follow at Knights of Columbus Hall, 202 W. Front St, Monroe, MI 48161.  Cremation has taken place through Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan, a division of Merkle Enterprises, Inc. The family has requested that guests come dressed casually or wearing blue, as that is what Donnie would have wanted.

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