Donald R. Ormrod Sr.

1930 - 2024

Donald R. Ormrod, Sr.
January 23, 2024
Better late than never, but when you lived a life like him, it's difficult to get it down in words. Donald Ormrod Sr. passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on January 23rd, 2024. Born on July 4th,1930 to the late Irene and James Ormrod. He was the beloved husband of Janet Ormrod for 70 years.
A man is defined by the family he raises, Don was one of the greats. A loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Don is survived by his wife, Janet, his children, Cindy Izzo (Paul), Richard Ormrod, James Ormrod (Susan), Jeffrey Ormrod (Ann), and Donald Ormrod (Denise), 17 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.
Don was predeceased by his parents, brother, Russell, and grandson, Kyle.
A 1949 graduate of North High in Worcester, MA, Don entered the US Marine Corps on June 28th that year. He was later discharged and began studies at UMASS, where he graduated in 1954 with a Bachelors of Science Degree. He began his career as Supervisor of Recreation in the city of Pittsfield, MA. After moving to Connecticut, he worked for the YMCA in Waterbury and New Haven. He also received a Masters in Physical Education from Southern CT State College. In 1959, he began his reign at the University of New Haven (New Haven College back then). Don did it all. Basketball coach, associate professor, the original head coach of Charger men's basketball, and the first Director of Athletics and Physical Education. Although you won't see his name on a building, on a plaque, or a sign, UNH athletics would not be what they are today without Donald Ormrod.
Don and Janet later moved to Tarpon Springs, Florida, where he was a sales rep for manufactured home sales, a substitute teacher, as well as the sales/park manager for The Meadows leasing park. Traveling up to CT every 4th of July to celebrate his birthday with his loving family and to attend each and every UNH event he could. Don also was caretaker to his mom, Irene, until she passed at 103. A few years ago, Don and Janet made the move to Texas to be closer to their dear family, where he resided till his passing.
We could write a novel of all the awards and accolades Don received in his lifetime. But being the humble man he was, he would never brag.
To Don/Dad/Coach/Gramps/Great-Gramps, you may not be physically with us anymore, but you left behind a beautiful legacy, an amazing family and memories we will talk about and pass on for generations to come.
Interment and Graveside services will be held at The Dallas Memorial Cemetery on July 5th, at 2:15 p.m. with full military honors.