Laconia---- Donald M. Sorenson, 70, died Monday, January 30, 2017 at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center after a period of failing health. His wife, Sarah, was by his side.
Born in New Bedford, MA on September 15, 1946 Donald was the son of Robert M. and Marion H. (Reed) Sorenson. He lived the first half of his life in New Bedford before moving to the Laconia area in 1985. Donald graduated from New Bedford High School, obtained his Bachelor's Degree from Southeastern Massachusetts University in Dartmouth, MA and his Master's Degree from Brown University.
Donald was very proud of his service to his country. At age 20 he enlisted in the United Stated Navy and volunteered to serve two terms on swift boats in Vietnam . A few years ago he was pleased to join the Swift Boats Sailors Association. Donald was active in Veterans' organizations. When he first returned from Vietnam he became a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and was elected Commander of the Pvt. A Poirier Post in New Bedford. At that time he was the youngest veteran to be elected commander. After moving to Laconia he transferred membership to VFW post #1670 where he has served in a number of capacities, most recently as Trustee. He was also a life member of the Disabled American Veterans and a member of the American Legion.
Donald was an insurance agent by profession. Prior to his retirement in 2011 he was the owner of Allen, Russell & Allen, Ltd. in Laconia, an agency which he established in 1989. Before moving to New Hampshire he founded and sold Sorenson Insurance Agency in New Bedford. Donald was a firm advocate of keeping up with the changes in the insurance industry and earned the professional designation of Certified Insurance Counselor over 40 years ago. He was also licensed by the state as an Insurance Advisor.
Donald had a lifelong interest in politics. He was the youngest person (at the time) to be elected City Councilor in New Bedford and represented Ward 1 from 1976 to 1981. He also served as City Council President for one year. Donald was a member of the Republican Party and the Belknap County Republican Committee; he actively supported various candidates for public office at the local, state and national levels.
A loyal Patriots fan, Donald, planned his activities so he could watch every game. For many years he had season tickets to the Patriots. As a teenager he played football, baseball and basketball; he became an Eagle Scout at age 13. Donald also enjoyed traveling and after his retirement went on several cruises.
Donald was a Shriner and served as Chief Aide of Bektash Temple for a number of years. He belonged to various Masonic organizations including Mt. Lebanon Lodge, Winnipesaukee Shrine Club, Valley of Concord and Valley of Nashua. He was a former member of the Laconia Rotary.
Donald is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Sarah J. (Buchanan) Sorenson, his sister, Carol Masuck of Florida; two nephews and several cousins.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 2, 2017 from 4:00pm- 7:00pm at the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Laconia, NH using the Carriage House entrance.
A Funeral service will be held Friday, February 3, 2017 at 9:30am also at the funeral home.
Burial will follow at 11:30am at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway, Boscawen, NH 03303.
For those who wish memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300 Jacksonville, FL 32256 or any other veterans organization.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial please visit www.wilkinsonbeane.com.