Donald R. Burning

Donald Raymond Burning, 81, passed away on Monday, January 23, 2012 in Worchester, MA. Born in Worcester, MA on February 24, 1930; son of Alice and Ernest Burning and brother of Florence McGuinness. Following graduation from Commerce High School, Don enlisted in the US Army and served with the 3rd Infantry Division 7th Regimental Combat Team. He was involved in 4 major battles including the battle of the Chosin Reservoir. Donald was awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Infantry Badge, Korean Service Medal with 4 Bronze Stars, along with other medals and awards including the Ambassador of Peace Medal from the Korean Government. After leaving the service, Don continued his education and received degrees from Becker College and Clark University. He moved to Leicester in 1954. Donald was active in the veteran’s community, having lifetime memberships in numerous organizations including The Chosin Few, Military Order of the Purple Heart, DAV, American Legion, VFW, Korean War Veterans Association, Trench Rats, and Korean Veterans of America. He held office in each of these organizations, worked tirelessly on behalf of other veterans and their families, and served as Chaplain for the Worcester Veterans Council and the Korean War Veterans Association. Don was selected Worcester Veteran of the Year in 2010. Don was an avid New England sports fan and supporter of Penn State football. In his spare time, he was a craftsman and enjoyed spending time with his family. Donald is survived by the love of his life, Jacqueline (DeMers), his wife of 58 years; four daughters: Cheryl Albano, Donna (Doug) Hawks, Kathryn (Bill) Kenney, and Julie Lobacz; and seven grandchildren: Nicholas and Maria Albano, Jennifer Hawks, Joseph, Matthew, and Jacqueline Kenney, and Emily Lobacz.