Douglas James Bidwell

Douglas James Bidwell, passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on August 20, 2025, at his home in Pinckney, Michigan. Born on October 30th, 1935, in Bellaire, Michigan to the late Alonzo and Ida May (Sheriff) Bidwell, Doug will forever be remembered for being a hard-working, dedicated and loving husband and father. He was the cherished husband of Mary (Foley) Bidwell for over 67 years. They were inseparable from the day they met in the parking lot of Bray’s Hamburgers in Wayne, Michigan in 1956. He was a devoted father to Lori (Michael) Turner, Douglas B. Bidwell, and Bonnie (Russ) Burgei. He adored his grandchildren: Jenny (Brandon) Mann, Sam Carano, Tyler (Jona) Hanson, and Kelsey Hanson. He was also blessed later in life with several bonus grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Doug was a proud patriot who served his country with honor in the U.S. Marines, stationed overseas. Doug was able to offer his talent of playing the bugle every morning to awaken the troops and every evening to end their day. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned home to marry his sweetheart and start a family in Milan, Michigan where they lived for over thirty years. He was an accomplished Barber, owning his own shop for over 55 years. He was also a talented bricklayer, utilizing this trade to brick his own home and build his own pole barn. Doug was self-taught and never hired a handy man for any job, which is not a small feat in the days before YouTube! Doug and Mary spent many years of retirement as “snowbirds” traveling in their RV, spending winters in Mississippi and Alabama. It is here that they had lots of fun walking the beaches and indulging in the all-you-can-eat casino buffets. In the summer they enjoyed taking their 1970 Buick Skylark to the car shows as members of the Backstreet Cruzers Car Club. They took home many trophies and awards!

Doug was the loving brother of Suzy (Dave) Allmendinger and the late William (Marie) Bidwell. He often spoke of fond memories he had of growing up in northern Michigan and had a deep love for his siblings. Doug was a loyal husband, a proud father, and a doting grandfather. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all that knew him.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Hamburg Chapel on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 from 10:00AM-12:00PM, with his memorial service at 12:00PM.  A private burial will follow at Marble Park Cemetery in Milan, Michigan.

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