Donald Brezinski

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Donald Peter Brezinski, 78, of Paw Paw, Michigan. Don left us peacefully, in his sleep, December 18, 2024. Don's life was one of profound curiosity, boundless love, and unrelenting passion for discovery. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Born on December 2, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan to the late Peter and Nadia Brezinski, Don's intellect and thirst for knowledge were evident from a very early age. His academic journey, based on a wild proficiency for science and mathematics, sent him to University of Detroit Jesuit High School where he joined the "Men of Honor"- friends that he would claim for the next 60 years. His days being a classical pianist and National Merit scholar and his four-year claim to the National Honor Society were just the beginning of a life full of notables.

From the beginning of his career where he sequenced DNA to the end of his life where he shared his fascination of an infinite universe, Don's life was all about discovery. From his patents to his travels, Don was always studying his place... his role in an ever-expanding universe. Where did he fit? What more could he learn? What more could he give? His doctoral studies in medicine, physics and bio-chemistry uncovered the complexities of base DNA. His analytic work at Corning claimed ground-breaking patents that we still use today. His work with Artificial Intelligence at Bell Labs was nothing short of pioneering. Everything he touched found wildly incredible results.

Don's study of philosophy and passion for discovery took him all over the world. He traveled to more than 50 countries, climbing mountains, bicycling across Europe, and even sleeping under the Eiffel Tower. The adventure and curiosity never stopped.

Don's life of discovery was the gift that he shared with the people he loved and with the world itself, and we are all better for it.

Don is pre-deceased by the love of his life, Patricia Canete, but leaves behind a life full of friends who call him family.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Saturday, January 11, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 W. Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw. A memorial service will begin at 1:00 p.m. Don will be laid to rest at St. Mary's Cemetery in Paw Paw.

Share a memory or sign the online guestbook at adamspawpaw.com