Donald George Moffat

Donald George Moffat, age 88, passed away on July 6, 2023. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories that will forever be treasured by his family and friends.

Don was born on September 28, 1934, in Buffalo, New York. From an early age, he displayed remarkable qualities that endeared him to those around him. Known for his warmth, generosity, and sense of humor, Don had a way of bringing joy and laughter to the lives of everyone he encountered. He graduated from Lafayette High School in Buffalo, NY in 1954. While at Lafayette High School, he was an “All High Cross Country” athlete. In 2009, he was inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame at his high school. After high school, he attended Canisius College in Buffalo, NY receiving an associate degree in Accounting, and was New York Cross Country Champion.

Don enlisted in the United States Navy in 1954. He received a direct field commission to 2nd Lieutenant in the Army while serving in the country of Vietnam as a naval enlisted man. Don did six tours in Vietnam earning two Bronze Stars, the Army Commendation Medal, and his unit twice earned the Gallantry Cross with Palm. While enlisted, he earned a bachelor’s degree in General Studies, Accounting, from the University of Nebraska Omaha under the Army degree completion program called “Boot Strap.” He served in the military for 20 years, achieving the rank of Major.

After his military service, Don continued his dedicated service to the community. He was a graduate of the Corrections Academy and Police Academy. He joined the Pinellas County Sheriff's Department on July 20, 1980, where he retired in 1994. For the past seven years, he was a crossing guard for the Largo Police Department in Largo, FL, showcasing his commitment to public safety. In 1982, Don received the “Key to the City of Largo” from Mayor George McGough for his service to the Largo community. He is also recognized in the Military Court of Honor in Largo Central Park located in downtown Largo.

Don’s faith was an integral part of his life. He converted to the Catholic faith on August 27, 1956. On December 9, 1962, he was received into the 3rd Order of St. Dominic by Fr. Faye OP as a private lay religious into the Order of Preachers. The ceremony took place at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. On April 1, 1981, Don was professed by Fr. Allen OP. His profession took place at Our Lady Queen of Peace in New Port Richey, FL.

Don was actively involved in St. Patrick Catholic Church, where he served as a Eucharistic minister since 1977. His dedication to his faith extended to his involvement in various ministries, including being a sacristan, reader, usher, altar server and catechist. His commitment to his Catholic community earned him recognition and appreciation. Don was a distinguished member of the Knights of Columbus, serving as an honorary life member of both the 3rd and 4th degrees. He held the positions of Past Grand Knight of Council 4892 and Past Faithful Navigator of Joseph Hurley Assembly. Don's contributions to the Knights of Columbus were recognized when he was awarded Knight of the Year for the state of Florida 1980-1981. His dedication and service were admired and celebrated by his fellow knights.

He was happily married to his beloved wife, Mai Moffat, for 53 years. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Their marriage was a testament to their commitment and deep bond, and Don's love for Mai was unwavering.

Don was a devoted father to his four children. He took great pride in their accomplishments, and all of them graduated from Largo High School. Three of his daughters went on to earn university degrees, while two of them pursued master's degrees. Don's love and support were instrumental in their educational journey, and he was their constant source of guidance and encouragement.

Outside of his professional and community involvement, Don cherished his role as a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was preceded in death by his son, Thomas George. He is survived by his wife, Mai, and daughters MyLan (Alex) Barfield; Louise (Ron) Henkel; and Mary (Brent) Deason. He was blessed with seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, and his love for them knew no bounds. Don created countless memories with his family through gatherings, celebrations, and shared experiences.

Visitation services to celebrate the life of Donald George Moffat will be held on Wednesday, July 12th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Serenity Funeral Home, located in Largo, Florida. Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, July 13th at 1 p.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Largo, and graveside service with military honors immediately following at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Clearwater. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the church in Don's honor.

As we bid farewell to Don, let us carry forward his legacy of love, compassion, and dedication. May his spirit continue to inspire us to live a life of service, faith, and love.

You will forever remain in our hearts.