Page created by: Elaine

Donald touched so many lives. He was loved, admired and respected by everyone. This included family,friends, co-workers and the community in which he served as a member of the community school board for 30 years. As a manager of Equal Employment Opportunity for the U.S. Postal Service he fought for the rights of others. But beneath the surface and shining through was a warmth and gentleness for all to see.
Donald brought those qualities into my life. We laughed and cried together. Turned obstacles into opportunities and detours into adventures. Unable to return to Vermont for our annual visit , or so we thought, we found an accessible Inn, secured his hoya lift into the specialized van and for three summers continued to have exciting and incredible vacations. We would spend cold, but sunny, winter days going to the park .Warmed by the sun pouring into our van, we enjoyed picnics of sandwiches and sodas and his favorite lemon ices from The Lemon Ice King of Corona. I read some of his favorite books to him and life was good. He never complained. When Parkinsons took away his ability to walk after working hard in therapy and having hopes on improving, he never complained. Unable to care for his personal needs, he always showed his appreciation to those who helped him. Parkinsons took it's toll on Donald, but it never stole his spirit or his concern for others. His life was a precious gift to all who knew and loved him. His favorite expression was " Happy Days" And I know that's what he's wishing all of us now.