Donald Arthur Mates

Donald Arthur Mates Palm Beach - Donald A. Mates Sr. died June 1, 2023, at the age of 97, after a full and inspiring life. He was born February 10, 1926, in Cleveland, Ohio.

During World War II, Donald battled with the 3rd Marine Division in Guam and Iwo Jima where he was wounded by an enemy grenade. In addition to the Purple Heart, Donald earned the Marine Combat Action Ribbon, a Presidential Unit Citation, and an American Defense Service Medal.

He was a graduate of Arizona State University, where he met his wife of 64 years, Mary, who predeceased him in 2013. Donald lived over thirty years in Sayville, New York where they raised their three children. During his lifetime he was a professional boxer, renowned real estate developer, land appraiser, county political leader, standardbred horse owner, and financial advisor.

A resident of Palm Beach since 1986, Donald was an active volunteer at the VA Medical Center in West Palm Beach and the Palm Beach Police Department.

Known for his quick wit and deadpan sense of humor, "Big Don" was engaged in life and his personal relationships, demonstrating a tremendous zest and desire to live. He was always developing new interests, hobbies, and friends, until his very last days. Forever a mentor, he took the time to shape countless lives spending time and offering counsel, especially to veterans, assisting them in receiving their benefits and services due.

Donald was predeceased by his wife, Mary Mates and five siblings. He is survived by a sister, Terry Poulos (Greg), three children, Carol Candela (Carl), Barbara Morris (Kevin), and Donald Jr. Seven granddaughters Mary Woodruff, Audra Smith (Courtney), Isabella Mates (Adam), Angela Mates, Lucia Schuyler (Dillon) , Annemarie Morris and Ursula Mates. Three great grandchildren; Sunny Smith, Beau Savage Mates Smith, Winona Woodruff, Sister-in-law Maryann Mates and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, family, and friends of all ages from all walks of life.

A military inurnment will be held at Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia.

Donations may be made to:

Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH), Chapter 717

7305 N. Military Trail, Bldg. 10

West Palm Beach, FL 33410