Donald Chase

Donald Chase, 90, of Connecticut, passed away on May 16th, 2018 in Rock Hill, South Carolina while visiting his family. He is survived by his wife, Elaine, who was the love of his life for 47 years. He leaves behind his daughter Gelaine Bauer (Bruce) and grandchildren Alicia Hebert (Sean), Laura Prusaczyk (Ryan) and 5 great-grandchilden, all of Rock Hill. In Connecticut, he leaves behind: Damian Maher (Richard), Robert Michalski, Aleta Amato (Phil), George Krawshuk, and a daughter-in-law Gina Michalski, several grandchildren, great grandchildren, a great-great grandchild, nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved German Shepherd, Ziva, and I-Ping Chen, who always thought of him as her Grandfather. Donald grew up in Hartford, CT. After attending Weaver High, he joined the United States Army in 1946, with his lifelong best friend, Ray Maselek. Don served as a surgical technician during World War II. He then delivered milk for a brief period before working for Violette Silvester and Sons Construction. Don joined the City of Hartford Connecticut Fire Department in 1952 , he retired as Captain after nearly 30 yrs. Of note, Don was one of the first responders to the devastating fire that destroyed the Cathedral of St. Joseph in 1956 as well as the unforgettable fire at Hartford Hospital in 1961. Once retired, he spent many years traveling by motor home. He and his wife spent the winters in Florida where he enjoyed socializing and visiting with friends and family, which he continued do until he reached 90 years old. Don's family would like to thank the staff at the Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House as well as the Rock Hill Fire Department who graciously visited him, calling him their "hero"; this meant so much to Don. Donations may be made in Don's honor to the Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House, P.O. BOX 993, Rock Hill, SC 29731. There will be no calling hours, burial will be private.