Donald A. Hart

Donald A. Hart, 75, of Wakefield, passed away Friday, Oct. 2, 2020 after a brief illness, with his family by his side.

Born in Lynn on June 4, 1945, to the late Helmer and Pearl (Edwards) Hart, he grew up in Saugus and was a Saugus High School graduate.

The beloved husband of Pamela (LaConte) with whom he recently celebrated 50 years of marriage, he was the cherished father to Michael Hart and wife Lisa of Wakefield and Tanya Reilly and husband Chris of Methuen and special Papa to Courtney, Kevin and Cameron Hart and Andrew and Owen Reilly, who were his pride and joy.

Survivors include his brother David Hart and wife Judy of Saugus and brothers-in-law Joseph Ricci of Wakefield, Donald (Duke) LaConte and wife Debbie of Lynnfield and James LaConte of Florida. He also leaves behind several dear nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and lifelong friend Richard Hanson.

A proud Vietnam War Veteran, he enlisted in the US Navy as a Seabee and was stationed in Iceland and DaNang, Vietnam. While serving in DaNang, Don had the privilege of escorting actress Martha Raye around as she toured the area.

Among his interests were muscle cars, camping, traveling, remodeling his home, working in the yard and helping his family with their home projects. He also enjoyed volunteering his time helping veterans.

Don was a member of the DAV, AL Post 63 Wakefield, VFW Post 2346 Saugus, MCB-12 Seabee Assoc., Crystal Community Club and Wakefield Sons and Daughters of Italy #1734. He also served on the town’s Veterans Advisory Board and worked the polls during town elections.

Prior to retirement, Don worked at the Boston Naval Shipyard, Polaroid and Pfizer as an electrical specialist.

Don leaves behind many cherished memories and will be missed dearly by his loved ones.

A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, October 9, at the Forest Glade Cemetery Lowell, St. Wakefield at 12:00pm.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend.  Visiting hours will be held Thursday, October 8, at the Douglass, Edgerley and Bessom Funeral Home 25 Sanborn St. (corner of Woburn St.) Reading from 4:00-7:00pm.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Mass. Parkinson’s Disease Association 72 East Concord St. C3 Boston, MA 02118 or Home Base Program 1 Constitution Rd. Charlestown, MA 02129.