Donald F Richter

Donald was born May 4, 1930, in Bloomfield, New Jersey. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 60 years, Joan (Martin) Richter. Together they built a wonderful life in Upper Montclair, NJ before retiring to Centerville in 1992, where they enjoyed many happy years overlooking Nantucket Sound.

Donald spent his career in sales, Ultimately retiring from Commerce Clearing House.

More than anything, Donald will be remembered for the kind, gentle. witty man that he was.He possessed an unfailingly cheerful disposition, never hesitated to offer a genuine compliment, and was someone whose word could always be trusted. He had a knack for lifting the spirits of all who were lucky enough to cross paths with him. He had an uncanny ability to fix just about anything -- famously reconstructing a vacuum cleaner using parts from a hair dryer. His family loved hearing his stories,, including the time he chased a burglar from his home armed with nothing more than a shovel. Fiercely independent, he held onto his home until the very end, a reflection of the self-reliance that defined him throughout his life.

Donald loved sailing and found his greatest peace sailing down the Centerville River into the Nantucket Sound, especially when accompanied by his family. He had a deep appreciation for nature. While he enjoyed many hobbies and adventures, his greatest joy came from the people he loved.

He is survived by his daughter Peggy, and her husband Gene McQuade, of Hyannis Port, Massachusetts; his grandchildren, Michael, Maggie, and Patrick (Christine); his great-grandchildren, Keira and Declan; and his sister Sharon MacDonald, of West Caldwell, New Jersey.

Donalds Viewing will be at Doane Beal and Ames in Hyannis, Massachusetts on Thursday, July 23 from 5-7 pm, followed by a viewing, funeral mass, and internment the following week in Upper Montclair, New Jersey at a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Our Lady of Victory Church in Centerville, MA