Donald Joseph Sullivan

Obituary Final Donald Joseph Sullivan of Chelmsford, MA
Donald Joseph Sullivan, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully surrounded by love. He was married for 67 years to the love of his life, Christine Sullivan. Their deep affection for one another was beautiful to witness and rare to behold.
A gentle soul, Don lived by his favorite saying: "The one reason we are here on earth is to get to heaven." His deep faith, devotion to family, and the kindness he extended to others were a constant reflection of that belief.
Born in Staten Island, New York on October 19, 1932, Don was the second of five children and the beloved son of William "Brud" and Margaret (Lapointe) Sullivan. He attended Saint Peter's School and graduated in 1950. At the age of 11, he lost his father to complications from mustard gas exposure during World War I. Raised by his strong and faithful mother, Don grew up with a lasting sense of purpose and a tireless work ethic.
He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from Manhattan College, commuting two hours each way by ferry and subway - a true testament to his determination.
When a family friend hosted twin sisters visiting from Jamaica, Don instantly fell for the younger of the two, Christine, with whom he shared an everlasting love. They married and began their life together in Clearwater, Florida with their first child. But after a few years and a few more kids, they settled in New England - their heaven on earth - where they raised five children and built a life full of love, laughter, and faith.
Don and Christine embraced all four New England seasons, enjoying golf, tennis, skiing, daily Mass, long walks through the Westlands neighborhood, and sunsets in the gazebo. They also lived for spontaneous getaways to places like Ogunquit, Thompson Lake, and Lake Bomoseen.
Known affectionately as "Mr. Fix It," Don could repair almost anything - from motors to fine china. To his grandchildren, he was "Gramdad," beloved for his famous pancakes, lawnmower rides, and storytelling during sleepovers.
Don spent much of his career at Raytheon, contributing to radar systems - including a notable assignment in the remote Aleutian Islands of Alaska.
He is survived by his five children and their spouses: Ricky and Lisa Sullivan, Glynnis and Sal Perruccio, Joe and Sue Sullivan, Bobby and Mary Ann Sullivan, and Anne and Jeff Stagnone. He was grandfather to 14 and great-grandfather to 13. Don also leaves behind his sister-in-law Monica Sullivan, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Christine, infant daughter Christine Virginia, and grandson Michael Perruccio.
Don was the cherished brother of the late Virginia Walsh, Irene, Vincent, and Lawrence Sullivan.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Jen, Cheryl, and Gracie for their loving care, which allowed Don to remain in the home he cherished; to Margo for bringing Holy Communion; and to Colleen and the staff at the Chelmsford Senior Center.