Donald (Don) J. Boyle, retired fleet mechanic

Donald (Don) J. Boyle, 79, of Millsboro passed away peacefully Tuesday, July 23, 2019, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes. 

Don was born in Philadelphia, Pa., April 26, 1940. He was proud to have served in the U.S. Army for three years, two of which were in Germany. In addition, he was in the Army Reserves for two years following his tour.  He retired from Delmarva Power & Light as a fleet mechanic.  After retirement, Don drove for Dutton School Bus Service Inc. in Sussex County, as well as the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Transit (DRBA).

Don had a fantastic sense of humor, and was often found laughing around the table with family and friends. He enjoyed traveling domestically and internationally with his wife, Rae. Don took delight in boating, owning many vessels through his life. He made wonderful memories volunteering on the USS Mohawk for many years. Don was an avid lover of live theatre, and an enthusiastic music fan. He often sat up late listening to Broadway hits and Irish music. Don was an active member of AMVETS Post 2, American Legion Post 28, Elks Lodge and the Indian River Yacht Club.  He enjoyed spending time with family and looked forward to the annual Boyle Open family reunions.

Don is survived by his wife Reidun (Rae) Nilsen-Boyle; his sister, Lillian Gardner; his children: Marie O’Donnell (John), Dorothy Boyle (Sally), Donald Jr. Boyle (Aggie), Kimberly Boyle (Donna), Laura Hodgson (John), Greg Painter and Erik Painter; his daughter-in-law, Cheri Boyle; his grandchildren: Valerie Jefferson (Kevin), Danielle Johnson (Sean), Lauren O’Donnell, Victoria Boyle, Amanda Boyle, Ryan Boyle, Justin Hodgson, Sarah Hodgson, Hunter Hodgson and John Hodgson; and his great-grandchildren: Kevin, Aiden, Riley, Michael, Thomas and Liliana.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Lillian Boyle; his brother, Howard; his sisters, Joan and Karolyn; and his son, James.

Committal Services at the Delaware Veterans Cemetery will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.

In lieu of flowers, Don’s family suggest a donation to one of the following in his memory: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association or National Kidney Foundation.

Please visit Don's Life Memorial Webpage and sign his online guest book at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.