Donald Charles DalPonte, 83, of Bessemer, died Wednesday, April 13, 2016. He was born August 27, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois and resided there until his family moved to Ramsay, Michigan.   Donald graduated from A.D. Johnston High School, Bessemer in 1950. After working in Milwaukee for two years, he enlisted with the U.S. Navy and served for four years aboard troop transport ships from Norfolk, VA to Dover, DE, England and Bremerhaven, Germany In 1957 he began a lifelong pursuit of education, studying at Gogebic Community College, Northern Michigan University, the University of Michigan and Lawrence Technical School. Donald worked as an architectural draftsman for the State of Michigan, residing in Lansing and Williamston, Michigan until his retirement. He then moved to Bessemer and made his home there until his passing.   Donald was prededed in death by his parents, Rose and John DalPonte; his grandparents; and numerous aunts and uncles.   He is survived by his sister, Charlotte (Bill) Knaack; two nephews, Joseph (Terri) and James (Jill) Knaack; great-nephews, Andrew (Tami) Knaack and family and Jeffrey and Jacob Knaack.   A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, May 5, 2016 at St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Bessemer with Fr. Antony Lukka as celebrant, assisted by Deacon Chuck Gervasio. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.Graveside Services will be held Thursday, July 7, 2016in the Hillcrest Cemetery in Bessemer.