Donald F. Cooley, a Needham resident for 55 years died on Friday, October 26th at the Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Needham. He was 88 years old. Born in Auburndale, Mr. Cooley was raised in Wellesley and was a graduate of Wellesley High School. He was a US Army veteran of World War II, having served in Germany from 1941 to 1943. Upon being discharged from the Army, he went to work for A.D. Jones Optical in Cambridge. In the late 60’s and early 70’s, A.D. Jones, with Mr. Cooley as Vice President was contracted with NASA to design an instrument to assist the Apollo Space Missions with communications. After leaving A.D. Jones, Mr. Cooley worked for the Meller Company in Providence RI. He retired from there at age 62. Mr. Cooley was an accomplished woodworker. He loved gardening and nature. Mr. Cooley loved being outdoors, he enjoyed salt and freshwater fishing as well as downhill and cross country skiing with his wife. For many years, Mr. and Mrs. Cooley summered on Newfound Lake in New Hampshire. Cooley, Donald F. of Needham, October 26, 2007. The beloved husband for 64 years of Virginia (Fullerton), he was the brother of the late William H. and Arthur N. Cooley. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. A Funeral Service will be held in the Eaton Funeral Home 1351 Highland Ave Needham on Tuesday, October 30 at 1:00 PM. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Visiting will be held on Tuesday from 12 noon to 1:00 prior to the service. Interment is private. In lieu of flowers donations in Don’s name may be made to the Needham Fire and Rescue c/o Needham Fire Dept. 88 Chestnut St. Needham MA 02492.