When asked what would he call the biography of his life, he thought for a while and answered "From Wagons through the Digital Highway". He was amazed that from his boyhood playing stickball in the streets of Manhattan (while avoiding horse drawn carts and carriages), he now spent his time on his iPad or laptop playing Word with Friends, Sudoku, and following the exploits of his grandchildren on Instagram.
Donald was a decorated Navigator in the US Army Air Corp. His Bombardier Group was based in Italy, and his squadron was supported by the Tuskegee Airmen. He never spoke of his own bravery, rather focusing on that of the men he served with. He was grateful for the dedication of the Tuskegee Airmen and believed they were why he lived to make it home.
After his honorable discharge from the Army Air Corp, Donald joined the NY Police Department, retiring at the rank of Detective. While in the NYPD, Donald was privileged to be present at many historical moments including being part of the security details for such varied people as the family of then Mayor Robert Wagner, Fidel Castro, and Pope Paul VI. We credited Don's long life to the blessing he received from the Pope.
His greatest love in life was his bride Trudy. While Trudy was the love of his life, it did not keep him from exercising his wry wit when he tricked her into proposing to him. Finally on their 60th anniversary, he sent flowers with a card reading "will you marry me?" And yes, she did indeed say "I will". Another favorite true story of his love is "The Dollar Bill." When Don and Trudy were getting their marriage license, the clerk said the filing fee was $2. Don, smiling, placed a dollar bill on the counter. The clerk politely said, no it's $2 sir. Don's response ? I know, I am waiting for her dollar. As the clerk gasped, Trudy said - he's right, this is a partnership,and placed her dollar bill on the counter. Before the clerk could take the fee, Don took Trudy's dollar and replaced it with his own.Trudy's dollar can still be found in his wallet.
Family meant everything to Don, whether by blood or by choice. And there were many he and Trudy chose to include in their family. There was always room and a plate available for anyone who came by. Donald was happiest when his family was around and always made sure he and Trudy were available for any party, event, or opportunity to babysit. He was a master carpenter and there are many, many pieces, from furniture to walls, doors and fireplace mantels in each of his children's homes in testament to his talent.
Don is survived by his daughters Frances, Helen and Elizabeth, sons Albert and Donald, their partners, Stephen, Ralph, Rosanne and Diane, and the greatest joy of his life his grandchildren AnnMarie, Donna, Elaine, Adam, Christopher, Sara, Sean and Kerry.
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