Donald William Blais

Donald William Blais, 92, of Lakewood Ranch, Florida, passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025. Born on February 18, 1932, in South Attleboro, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Joseph E. and Merosa Blais. Mr. Blais served as an Engineman in the United States Navy during the Korean conflict aboard the USS Randall, a ship featured in the movie "Away All Boats." He was awarded the National Defense and Occupational Medal for his service.

Mr. Blais worked as an apprentice toolmaker at Hillsinger Corp. before rising to the role of General Manager of the eyeglass repair division, where he worked until retirement. He had a variety of hobbies, including carpentry, a small upholstery business, and dabbling in stained glass work. He enjoyed playing cards and cribbage, cherishing time spent with family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marguerite I. Blais, and siblings Grace, Frank, Madeline, Gilbert, George, Norman, Richard, and Bobby. Mr. Blais is survived by his children: Alan Blais (Rita), Linda Blais (Andy Cardillo), Maureen Blais-Gestrich (Eric), Michael Blais, and Mark Blais (Margaret), as well as his grandchildren: Andrea, Phillip, Austin, and Allison.

Memorial Mass will be held at 8:30 AM on Monday, March 17, 2024 at St. Faustina Catholic Church, 15551 N Boggy Marsh Rd., Clermont, FL.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to St. Faustina’s Catholic Church in Clermont, FL, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN, or the SPCA in Lakeland, FL.

Arrangements are entrusted to Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home and Palms Memorial Park.