New Bedford – Donald F. Durante, 72, of New Bedford died January 13, 2008 at St. Luke’s Hospital. He was the husband of Glenda A. (Sturgeon) Charest Durante.
Mr. Durante was born in Brooklyn, NY, son of the late John and Eleanor A. (Thorne) Durante, and resided in New Bedford since 1987. He served in the National Guard for over 37 years. He was employed as a manager by the former NYNEX until his retirement and was also a Deputy Sheriff of Bristol County. He was a member of Sam’s Cape Codders, the Gun Owner’s Action League, National Rifle Assoc., Rod & Gun Club of New Bedford, National Guard Assoc., Rhode Island National Guard Retiree’s Assoc., and the International Defensive Pistol Assoc.
In addition to his widow, he is survived by 3 daughters: Diane Joss of Charlestown, RI, Donna McCadden of Saunderstown, RI and Heather Charest of New Bedford; 2 sons: Jeffrey E. Charest and Nicholas H. Charest both of New Bedford; a brother: Robert Forster of Grants Pass, Oregon; 7 grandchildren including his special granddaughter, Ashley L. Clark of New Bedford; and several nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the SAIL Program (Supporting Adults for Inclusive Living), checks payable to PSILL, 693 Purchase St., New Bedford, MA 02740 or SOMA – Greater New Bedford (Special Olympics), 66 Main St., Taunton, MA 02780.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend:
Visiting hours on Wednesday, January 16, 2008, 5:00-7:00 P.M.
Funeral services will be on Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 7:00 P.M., immediately following visiting hours.