Donald F. Greel, Sr., 90, husband of the late Carolyn A. (Wise) Greel of Gloucester, passed away on Friday afternoon, February 24, 2017, at the Den Mar Health and Rehabilitation Center, Rockport. He was born in Gloucester on September 23, 1926, son of the late Everett and Christina (Harmaala) Greel. He was a graduate of Gloucester High School, Class of 1944. Don proudly served in the United States Navy during WWII, receiving the World War II Victory Medal, the American Theatre Medal and the Asiatic Pacific Theatre Medal. Following WWII, he was employed for many years in the family dry cleaning business in Gloucester and then at United Shoe Machinery in Middleton as a chemical reactor operator. After retiring, he worked part time at the Manchester Athletic Club. In his spare time he enjoyed, walking, hiking and spending time in the sun on Flat Rocks along the Lanesville ocean front. He also loved traveling to the Caribbean Islands and taking Windjammer Cruises. In recent years he looked forward to spending his Sunday afternoons watching the Red Sox, Bruins or Patriots in the company of his daughter-in-law, Denise. He was especially proud of his four grandchildren, always following their outstanding athletic and academic achievements. Don will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his daughter, Sharon Greel of Rockport; two sons, Michael Greel and his wife, Kelley, Donald F. Greel, Jr. and his wife, Denise, all of Rockport; four grandchildren, Erin Greel, Daniel Greel, Bryan Greel and Jared Greel; his sister, Beverly Josephson of Gloucester; his brother, Richard Greel of Rockport; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Everett Greel, Jr. His graveside service will be held privately in Seaside Cemetery in Lanesville. There will be no visiting hours. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to the American Diabetes Association, 10 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701 or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are by the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester, MA. For online condolences, please visit www.greelyfuneralhome.com.
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