Ishpeming, Michigan – Donald W Liljequist, 96 passed away on Monday, January 24, 2022 at UP Health System Marquette.

Don was born December 4, 1925 in Ironwood, Michigan to the late Elmer and Irene (Backlund) Liljequist.  He was a 1944 graduate of Ironwood High School.  After which, he served in the U.S. Navy until the end of World War II. He then pursued studies at Gogebic Community College and continued at Michigan Tech University where he obtained his B.S. in civil engineering in 1951.  He married Anita Kokko on April 26, 1952.  They resided in Babbitt, MN for five years where he worked as a construction engineer for Reserve Mining Co.  Subsequently, they resided in Waukesha, WI and Madison, IN where he was employed as a structural design engineer.  In 1977, they moved to Ishpeming, MI where he worked as a design engineer for Cleveland Cliffs until his retirement.  During his career, he was registered as a professional engineer in five states.

For many years, he enjoyed long distance running, ski jumping, cross-county skiing and cycling.  He served as the engineer for the Ishpeming Ski Club for twenty-nine years.  He was granted life membership in the Ishpeming Ski Club.  Don was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church of Ishpeming.

He was preceded in death by his wife Anita, his parents, sister Gertrude and brothers Lloyd and Dean.  He is survived by his son Mark Liljequist of Ishpeming and daughter Nancy (Brian) Hamersma of Grand Rapids, MI.  He is also survived by his four grandchildren Lola (Matthew) Mckindles, Kyle Liljequist and Cody and Holli Hamersma.

Honoring Don's wishes, cremation will take place, and there will be no service.  Family will gather at a place of their choice to honor Don.  If desirable, the family suggests a donation to The Ishpeming Ski Club or The Alzheimer's Association.

Don's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.