Richard J. Donals
Greece/Conesus Lake – May 26, 2024 at 94. Joined the love of his life, Velma R. Weather. He was the head, she the heart and together, our foundation. Loving father of Nancy Donals, Marianne Donals, James (Corrine), Dan (Peggy), Grandfather of Timothy (Marnee) Burke, Kevin (Kristina) Burke, Christa Tyson, Meghan (Rob) Arscott, Emilie (Patrick) Lazenby, Kaitlin (Matt) Cup, Garrett (Chelsey) Donals, Kelly (Matt) Noyes, Rick Kemp, Sara Donals (Matt Faiello), Michael Donals, and 17 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews.
Richard (Dick) Donals was a devoted Husband, Father, Family Man. Married to wife Velma Weather in June of 1951, they remained married for 70 years until her passing in July of 2021.
He served in the United States Army from 1951 to 1953 in Germany during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1953 as a Master Sergeant. Other than his two-year service to country, he served as a proud member of Local 13 Plumbers and Pipefitters from 1950-1986. In 1982, after working for three Local 13 contractors, he started his own company with partner’s Gil Venette and Larry Mehlenbacher called Livingston Mechanical Contractors.
Dick worked hard and played harder throughout his career. Dick earned the respect of everyone he worked with. He enjoyed life and lived life to its fullest.
He met most of his life-long friends at the 10th ward playground, usually starting in a fight and ending up best friends for life.
From a young boy, he always enjoyed being on the water. Dick and Velma retired on Conesus Lake, and wintered in Palm Harbor, Florida.
He enjoyed boating, swimming, golf, and bowling. He was an organizer of many leagues, tournaments, even a third of July parade on McPherson’s Point which is still carried out to this day.
He was always welcoming and ready to receive family and friends at either of his vacation homes. We had many gatherings for Holidays, weekend cookouts, or just to play cards. Whatever the occasion, it was always a good time.
He will be sadly missed, but the classic stories and memories will bring laughter to all future gatherings for years to come.
His legacy and memories will live on through his extended family and everyone he came in contact with.
Many thanks to the staff at the Jewish Home on the 4 Southwest Unit. Memorial contributions can be made to Alzheimer’s Association.
Calling hours will be Thursday June 27th from 4-7pm at Dierna Funeral Home 2309 Culver Rd. Services will be held privately.
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My sincere condolences to the Donals Family
What a beautiful obituary, a true testament to him and Velma. I have such fond memories of them on McPhersons point. Sending my warmest sympathies to all of you. Their greatest legacy has been their amazing families they leave behind, may you all find comfort through one another.