(Update – I changed the name of this post from “Tribute to Don, 22″ to “Dance On Don”. This morning I received an update from Jimmy Wauldron with a PDF of the State News from Lansing MI with an article that might tear your heart out.)
The ACRR is a close nit family and we celebrate or triumphs together… and our losses. A little less than a week ago our family suffered a huge loss.
I hope Jim Wauldron doesn’t mind that I quote a recent (Jan 30) email from him, but I think he says it best:
Our dear friends,
I’m normally quick witted and up-beat…….but at a loss for the right words today. By now, you’ve all heard that Renee’ has lost her only child, Don…….just 22.Don died in his Lansing, MI apartment on Wednesday morning of causes yet to be determined. I have been Dons Step Dad for 20, of his short 22 years.
We are devastated.…
Renee’ was so happy to have completed her first 5K at the Matanzas run Saturday. It’s amazing how life can change so drastically…. in an instant. Today,…walking 5 feet feels like a marathon.
Don was very active overseas with alternative spring break programs.
Here are some pictures of him in action.
You can support a scholarship set up in Don’s name: the Don Ausman Alternative Spring Break Scholarship.
Gifts made payable to: Michigan State University-AB10240, and mailed to Michigan State University, The Center for Service -Learning and Civic Engagement, 27 Student Services, East Lansing, MI 48824
Here is the official, heartbreaking notice.
Beloved son of Phillip and Michelle Ausman and Renee and Jim Wauldron. Loving brother of Andrew and Marissa Ausman and Jim Jr. and Mike Wauldron. Dearest grandson of Nancy Ausman and Harry and Mary Bartolo. Predeceased by his grandfather Don Ausman and his uncle Greg Ausman. Will also be greatly missed by his aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends. Visitation Saturday 1-8 p.m. and Sunday 12 noon until time of Service at 3 p.m. at the Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Road, Livonia. Interment Glen Eden Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Don Ausman Alternative Spring Break Scholarship. Gifts made payable to: Michigan State University-AB10240, and mailed to Michigan State University, The Center for Service -Learning and Civic Engagement, 27 Student Services, East Lansing, MI 48824
Don was one of those guys you felt like you’d known a lifetime, after hanging with him for a few minutes. And someone you wish you had more time to spend with.
Here are some more pictures of Don online and a few more from our recent marathon in Lansing, MI.
