Donald R. Fraser

Donald Robert Fraser, Age 71, of Marblehead, left us all too soon on August 20, 2023, after a short illness. At the time of his death, Don was embraced by his loving wife of 48 years, Cheryl McMahon Fraser; his son, Colin Fraser of San Clemente, CA; his daughter, Bonnie Fraser Diamond, and her husband, Michael Diamond of Marblehead, as well as a circle of close family and friends. Don’s love of nature and the outdoors led him to scale mountain peaks all over the U.S. and beyond. He walked the Appalachian Trail many times and climbed every mountain over 4,000 feet in New England, with many more summits to his name in the Alps and the Rockies. Spending the summers of his youth in Marblehead, Don grew to love the town and its waters, where he spent many days sailing, and ultimately moved his young family to the town so that they could share in its beauty.

Don attended Boston State College, the graduate program at Antioch College, NH, as well as the National Outdoor Leadership School. As a former Director of the Somerville Youth Program, Don inspired young people to explore the outdoors. As an environmental manager, Don supervised the Blue Hill Reservation and later the Boston Harbor Islands. In retirement, Don worked for the Marblehead Council on Aging, helping Marblehead residents navigate the community. Throughout his career, Don was known for his commitment, kindness, humor, and ability to solve any problem by thinking outside the box and applying his “close enough for jazz” motto. Don was always there to lend a hand to friends and family with a workshop full of tools and an old pick-up truck to save many a day. Don was a proud member of the Gerry No. 5 Veteran Fireman’s Association of Marblehead, where he felt a great sense of community.

Born in Somerville, Massachusetts, Don was the son of John A. Fraser, M.D. and Eleanor (Burns) Fraser. In addition to his wife, Cheryl; and twin children, Bonnie and Colin; Don leaves behind his sweet grandchildren, Stella and Easton Diamond, and Mclaine Fraser, who will miss their “Pup”; his sisters, Anne, Martha, and Kathleen Fraser, all of Burlington; and his godfather; and cousin, Father Jack Farrell. He was predeceased by sisters, Jane Finlay and Judith Scanlan. He will be missed by an extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, August 24th, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm Street. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 25th, at Noon, at Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead. Interment will follow at Waterside Cemetery, Marblehead. Family would appreciate if guests wear masks. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Don's memory to the Trustees of Reservations or the Appalachian Mountain Club. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome.com for the Fraser family.