Donald J. Schappacher, 74, of Bonita Springs, Florida, and Mackinaw City, passed away Monday, March 8, 2010, surrounded by those he loved at his Florida home, after a brief illness of cancer.

He was born in Cincinnati to John and Mildred Schappacher September 1, 1935.

He married Alberta Buehlmann in June 1956, and they had three children. Mr. Schappacher was graduated from Roger Bacon High School, the University of Cincinnati, and received a master’s degree from Xavier University. He worked as a certified public accountant for Ernst and Young, becoming a managing partner of the Port Huron office. He was also a professor in the master’s program at Xavier University, and started his own hospitality company with hotels located across Michigan.

Mr. Schappacher believed in enjoying life to the fullest, and he traveled extensively. He was close to achieving his Life Master status in bridge, and owned and raced greyhound dogs. He cherished his many wonderful friends, some of whom he had known since kindergarten. Watching sunsets on the beach from his porch with a good glass of wine was one of his favorite traditions.

He is survived by his sons, Donald R. Schappacher and Steve Schappacher; a daughter, Lynn Varie; two grandchildren, Donald R. Schappacher Jr. and Rachel Schappacher; a sister, Donna Jean Lippincott; a nephew, Doug Lippincott; a niece, Julie Lippincott; his companion, Loretta Dowdrick, and many close friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Alberta, and his parents, Mildred and John Schappacher.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be given to Roger Bacon High School Scholarship Fund, 4320 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45217.