Douglas Daniel Grasso, age 77, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 15, 2024, to join the Lord in eternal peace. He was born on October 16, 1946, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to Alice Watterworth and Domenick Grasso. Douglas was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Domenic Grasso, and his beloved son Louis Grasso.
Douglas's journey began in Waterbury, Connecticut, where he spent his childhood years. His family traveled several places before they later settled in Ashland, Ohio. There he graduated from high school, showcasing his Mensa level academic prowess and athletic talent. His passion for music led him to learn to play the trumpet, piano, and French horn. He then earned a music scholarship to Ohio State University, where he not only received a Geology degree, but he distinguished himself as a skilled French horn player and as a member of both the tennis and swim team. His dedication and versatility were evident early on, and these traits defined his approach to life.
After graduation, Douglas answered the call to serve his country by joining the military, serving with honor in the United States Marines Corps. He became a decorated aviator, flying UH-1 and CH-46 helicopters during the Vietnam War. During his time in service, he earned a Rifle Sharpshooter Badge, a Pistol Expert Badge, 2 Vietnam Service Medals, a Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, a National Defense Service Medal, a Navy Unit Citation, 18 Air Medals, a Meritorious Unit Citation, and 38 Strike/Flight Air Medals.
In 1972, during his service while stationed at Kaneohe Bay Marine Corps Air Station in Hawaii, he met the love of his life, Ann. Their bond blossomed quickly, and they married on December 8, 1973. Douglas cherished his wife deeply, proposing to her on bended knee on a secluded beach. Their union of love blessed them with 8 children, and together, they embarked on a life filled with love, faith, and family.
Following his military service, Douglas pursued further education, earning a master’s in religious education from Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania. He and Ann then settled in Virginia, where Douglas served as the assistant director of religious education for the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia. Faith was a cornerstone of Douglas's life. A devout Catholic, he devoted himself to religious studies and harbored a lifelong aspiration to witness the miracle of Garabandal. This devotion even led him on a pilgrimage to the Spanish village in his earlier years.
His commitment to service extended beyond combat as he was driven by a sense of duty and re-entered the military. He was later stationed at Whiting Field in Milton, Florida as a Flight Instructor. There he became the number one captain of the squadron, and even joined a ping pong league where he became the 1981 two time Whiting Field Ping Pong Champion, while continuing to inspire and mentor young aviators as a flight instructor.
Following his military service, Douglas transitioned to civilian life, dedicating himself to serving his community. He worked as a life flight pilot for Shands Hospital in Gainsville, FL where he made a positive impact through his skill and compassion.
He then went to work for PHI in Louisiana where he later retired from after many years of loyal and dedicated service. Douglas continued his commitment to public service as a corrections officer for Escambia County Sheriffs Office in Pensacola, Florida, where he also retired from. His life was a testament to hard work and integrity.
Douglas loved reading, going to the movies, running, swimming, fishing, Fox News, going to different restaurants, playing slots (he just knew he was going to hit the big one), his dog Blue, but most of all he loved his family, and spending time with them all. He instilled in his children a love for life's simple joys, a love and commitment to family, and the importance of our Catholic faith.
In retirement, Douglas cherished spending time with his growing family, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife Ann, his children Juliana, Joseph, Elizabeth, Domenick, Anthony, Francis, Michael, and his son-in-law David. He is also survived by his grandchildren Brittany, Christopher, Avery, Alex, Paul, Lawrence, Luca, Flora, Nora, Georginanna, Abigail, and soon to arrive Evelyn. Subsequently, he is survived by his great-grandchildren Braelynn, Brella, and Bailey. He will be missed by many.
Douglas Daniel Grasso will be remembered for his devotion to family, his unwavering faith, and unperilled humor. His impact on those around him will continue to resonate for generations to come.
The family cordially invites friends to a visitation at Easterm Gate Funeral Home, 1985 West Nine Mile Road, Pensacola on Monday, April 22, 2024 from 2:00-3:00 p.m., immediately followed by military honors.
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