Don was born in Tampa, Florida on April 22, 1941, where he attended Lutz Schools and graduated from Chamberlain High School in 1959. He later joined the Tampa Police Department in 1963 where he served in all ranks and was promoted under 7 Mayors and acting Mayors until his appointment as Chief of Police by then Mayor, Bob Martinez. Additionally, he served 6 years of volunteer service in the U.S Army and Florida National Guard. Don became a graduate of the FBI National Academy Session 114 and later was one of only twenty-two Chief Executive Law Enforcement Officers from the U.S. and free foreign countries to be appointed to Ninth Session of the FBI National Executive Institute. He served as Chairman of the Local, State and Federal law Enforcement’s Tampa Bay Area Intelligence Unit. He was a member of the Blue Lightning Drug Task Force and at the time of his retirement, represented Florida as a member of the IACP International Organized Crime Task Force. Don also served as Vice President of the Gold Shield Foundation. Upon his retirement, he was recognized and received accommodations from the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, Tampa Police Department, Tampa City Council and Hillsborough County Legislative Delegation.
Don was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Marla Newberger.
Survivors include brother, Mitchell Newberger (Barbara), sister-in-law, Marsha McCoy (Jim) and two nephews and one niece.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fraternal Order of Police #27, 6912 Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33604.
