Donald M. Dessert Sr.

DESSERT, SR., DONALD M. 89, of Longwood FL, entered into his eternal rest on Oct. 17, 2010. Don retired with the rank of Colonel (USAF), having served in WWII, Pacific Theater, as a P38 and P61 pilot in the 419th Squadron and as a USAF test pilot at Eglin AFB, FL. He was stationed as Assistant Air Attache in both London, England and Ottawa, Canada. Don also served as Director of Intelligence for NORAD, Colorado and in Viet Nam as Deputy MACV J2. Other tours included the Pentagon as the Inspector General for DIA, and the Southern Command (Panama) as Executive Officer. He adored his Frances, wife of 65+ years, and was at his happiest when surrounded by his family, Don Jr. and wife Joellen of Palm Bay, Terry and wife Sharon of Wildwood, Sue and Mike McClure of Winter Springs, Patti and Oru Bose of Santa Fe, NM, Greg and wife Sarah of Sanford, and Carolyn and Ernie Lauterio of Los Angeles, CA. He also dearly loved, played, and swam with his six grandchildren, Kristin Kirk, Donald Mark III, Gregory and Meagan Dessert, Anastasia and Rajah Bose, and four "great-grands." Don was predeceased by all his siblings, Gene, K.O., Jerry, Bill, Rolly, and Ruthie. Although spread from coast to coast, Don also cherished the time he shared with his many nephews and nieces. Don loved to garden, he golfed around the world, and was a member of the US bobsled team for the 1953 World Trials. He was committed to his church and country. Don was a superior example of truth, honor and patriotism. He also never knew a stranger. A Memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, October 29 at Annunciation Catholic Church, 1020 Montgomery Road, Altamonte Springs, FL. Don will be inurned at Arlington National Cemetery in the Spring of 2011. In lieu of flowers, Don's favorite charities include: Hospice of the Comforter, Altamonte Springs; Special Operations Warrior Foundation for Children, P.O. Box 13483, Tampa FL 33681 (or online);
Melanoma Research Foundation, 170 Township Line Road, Hillsborough, NJ 08844 (or online.)