Donald G. Robert

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald G. Robert, Sr. Dad passed peacefully in his home, as he wished, on Saturday November 5, 2022. Donald “Don” “dad”, was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, grandfather, coach and friend to all.

Don as born July 26, 1934 in Holyoke Massachusetts. Don grew up in Holyoke where he found his love of family, friendship, and athletics. Don quickly rose to football fame while attending school at American International College and was named a “who’s who” at AIC.

On August 18, 1962 Don married the love of his life, Barbara Warner. They celebrated their nuptials along with Don’s graduation from AIC, with a 6-week honeymoon adventure to Europe. In 1963 Don signed his first year contract to play for the Springfield Acorns of the Atlantic Coast Pro Football League. He was named the Most Valuable Lineman that year and went on to sign his 2nd year contract in 1964. After a significant offer to stay on as a traveling coach/player, Don made the decision to be at home with his wife and children, near their families. Don and Barbara had three children between the years of 1963-1966.

Don began his career as an educator at East Catholic HS and through his network of friends and family was presented an opportunity to move to New Milford, CT and teach/coach at Canterbury Prep School from 1967 to 1984. Don was an admired and highly regarded by his students and players. He taught French and coached Football, Wrestling and Baseball. Don was extremely proud of leading his 1970 Wrestling Team to an undefeated season and the multiple State Champions through the years. Don also enjoyed coaching his son Don Jr. to an undefeated Football Season in 1980. Don Sr. was inducted into The Canterbury Hall of Fame in 2017 for his accomplishments as the Wrestling Coach. His players regarded them as ‘family’, and still do. During his ‘free time’ in the summer, Don was also the Director at Green Knoll Day Camp, in Brookfield, CT from 1967-1983.

In June, 1984 the Robert family moved to Boca Raton, FL. Don was accepted in the Broward Country Sherriff Office Academy and worked as a BSO Deputy for 10 years. Sherriff Navarro wanted to start a football team and had heard that Don was a coach/player, and approached Don to coach/play and lead the team. Sherriff Navarro even moved Don’s shift to accommodate the schedule. One of the other Deputies Don coached recommended Don to Coach at Cardinal Gibbons HS in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Don had an impressive coaching career that spanned over five decades! Don retired from coaching when he was 82.

Don was also an avid softball player, playing four times a week and loved the friendship and camaraderie. Don and Barb also were devoted members of St. Joan of Arc, where they sang in the choir from 1984-2019. During his time in Florida, Don loved spending time with his beloved family and friends. So many of which, called and considered him, “Dad”. Don was a Miami Dolphins season ticket holder and also loved tailgating/attending the University of Miami football team (it’s a U thing). Don’s biggest love was that of his adoring wife, Barbara and how proud he was of his children and their accomplishments.

Don was preceded in death by his loving wife Barbara, his parents Rose and Armand, and his sister Claire. He is survived by his adoring children, Don Jr., Frances, Stephen, his precious granddaughters Olivia and Juliet, his brother George and wife Carla, as well as so many more treasured nieces and nephews, and countless extended ‘family’ members.

The Robert family is overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. Don’s funeral arrangements will be:

Celebration of Life

Tallowwood Isle Clubhouse

6463 NW 32nd Ave.

Coconut Creek, FL. 33073

Sunday November 13 2022

12-5pm*

*Service at 3 pm

**Gate Code 215

Contact info for the Robert family is:

4160 NW 8th Terrace

Pompano Beach, FL. 33064

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.forestlawnnorth.com for the Robert family.