Donald Danis, loved by all who knew him, loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Donald was born in Fall River Massachusetts but most recently lived in Fairfax Vermont for the past 28 years. Donald was 89 years old and passed away at home on February 11, 2018 surrounded by his family.
Donald was born in Fall River Massachusetts to Eugene and Martha Danis on June 28, 1928. His mother, Martha passed away when he was 3 years old. His father, Gene remarried when Donald was 9. Nine months later Donald's father also died. He was raised by his stepmother Mildred, the only Grandmother his children ever knew.
Donald grew up in Fall River Mass and graduated from Durfee High School, where he joined the Navy Corp. During his high school years he worked at LA Drape, a local fish market. After graduating high school he entered the US Airforce. He attended Air Force Technical School at Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi. His course of study was in radio operations. Later he was sent to work as part of the 136 Communications Security Squadron.
In 1952 he married his high school sweetheart, Lorraine DaPonte. After leaving the Air Force in December of 1952, he began working for the New England Telephone Company. He began as an installer and worked his way up to District Manager, supervising 13 different town offices. He retired in 1990, and he and his wife Lorraine moved to Fairfax Vermont.
He began volunteering at Fanny Allen Hospital, and as an installer for Lifeline. He also worked for a short time as a FEMA communications specialist. Donald was an avid animal lover of both domestic and wild animals. His wife Lorraine passed away in December of 1996. In 1999, he met Sylvia Bovi of Connecticut, and remained in a loving relationship with her until his passing.
Donald and Lorraine were married for 44 years and are survived by their five children and their families: Patricia and husband Ralph Robinson, James and wife Denise, William, Jean and husband Gary Gilmond Jr., and Kathy and husband Michael Bovat. grandchildren: Bradley, Siobhan, Wendy, Brendan, Gary III, Mark and Kathryn. He was predeceased by two grand children, Erin and Joshua. Great Grandchildren: Brandone, James, Connor, Griffin, and Gary IV.
Special relatives in Kentucky: Nephew, Steve and wife Lynda DaPonte, and their children Dan and Cindee. Niece, Susan and husband Kevin Garrett, and their children Lauren, Matthew and Christopher. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins in Fall River MA.
Special thanks to Franklin County Home Health Hospice.
In the Spring there will be a Catholic Mass at St Luke's Church followed by an inurnment at St Luke's Cemetery in Fairfax Vermont.
Memorial contributions in Don's memory may be made to Franklin County Home Health Hospice.
