Donald Jude Myers

Donald J. Myers, 80, marched into Heaven proudly on January 28, 2016. Don was born on July 26, 1935 to Frederick and Mary (Reilly) Myers in Baltimore, MD. He was the third of seven children. A lifelong Marine, he fought until the end but finally surrendered when God called him home. Don served proudly for 35 years in the United States Marine Corps. He retired as a Colonel and was often referred to just as “the Colonel” by those who knew him. In 1953 he enlisted in the Marine Corps and spent four years as an infantryman before entering the Naval Academy. He graduated in 1961 and began a distinguished career commanding every size infantry unit up to a regiment and completed two tours in Vietnam. He also commanded the Marine Barracks in Washington D.C. and the Recruit Training Regiment in Paris Island, SC. He wore a chest full of medals that he was honored to have earned serving his country to include a purple heart and 3 bronze stars with combat “V” for valor. After retirement from the Marine Corps he served in business and was the Director of the Hickey School for Delinquent Boys, where he continued to lead and serve others. After moving to Florida, he was actively involved in writing, speaking and mentoring. His greatest leadership role was that of family man. His greatest life choice was being married to Grace Salino on June 10, 1961. They lived a beautiful love story for 54 years. He raised and adored 3 children: Kimberly (Robert) Rae, Donald J. Myers, II and Michelle (Kevin) Parker. He was Papa to 8 grandchildren: Lauren, Brittany, Alyssa, Claire, Brian, Amanda, Mallory and Joshua; 4 great-grandchildren: Kaylie, Jordan, Sophia and Caidence. He loved his grand dogs: Buddy, Tabby and Riley. He is survived by 2 sisters: Joan and Patricia; 2 brothers: Raymond and Frederick, in-laws, Christine and Ronald and Angela and Leonard and preceded in death by his parents, in-laws, 2 brothers, Gerald and Thomas and a beloved brother-in-law, Harry. He was greatly loved by over 100 nieces and nephews that completed a beautiful Irish Catholic family. He was a true American hero who was loved and respected by many. He will be greatly missed but lovingly welcomed into Heaven. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to: Catholic Relief Services (in memory of Donald Myers)P.O. Box 17090 Baltimore, MD 21297