Donald Eugene Mastracco Sr., proud Air Force veteran
Donald Eugene Mastracco Sr., 90, of Rehoboth Beach passed away Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2019, peacefully at his residence with his loving wife Betty by his side. He was born Jan. 5, 1929, in Williamsport, Pa., son of the late Cesaro and Ambrosia (Polumbi) Mastracco. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Debra Pentz; and his seven brothers.
Don was very proud of his long career in the U.S. Air Force that began Aug. 9, 1948, and ended with his retirement as a senior master sergeant Jan. 5, 1989, with over 41 years of service. Shortly after his retirement, he began his second career with the Prince Georges County government and the State of Maryland as an occupational safety and health inspector. After retiring from the State of Maryland, Don and Betty moved to Rehoboth Beach to begin a new chapter in their lives as a fully retired couple. In his retirement, Don became very involved with American Legion Post 5 and served five years as the post commander and served 56 years as an American Legion member. He was also very proud to be a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7447. Don loved and cherished the friendships that he made during his time with these organizations.
Although Don was proud of his career and his involvement with the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, he was proudest of his family. Don and Betty, lovingly referred to as Pop and Grandma by the family, had two wonderful children: his son, Donald E. Mastracco Jr. and his late daughter, Debra L. Pentz. Pop and Grandma have five very successful grandchildren: Amy Ferrigno, Daniel Mastracco, Russell Pentz, Laura Raley and Robin Mastracco. They also have five great-grandchildren: Dominic Ferrigno, William Raley, Madi Ferrigno, Eleanor Pentz and Adelaide Pentz. Don has lived his life to the best example that he could for his children and grandchildren, and they have grown to share many of his values. Pop was always there for his family and he was a very important part in their success.
Interment will be held Monday, Jan. 13, at 1 p.m., at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro.
Memorial Service will be held Saturday, Jan. 11, at 11 a.m., at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes where friends may visit beginning at 10 a.m. A life celebration will follow the services at VFW Post 7447, 101 State Road, Rehoboth Beach.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963, or call 855-DHI-GIVE.
Please visit Mr. Mastracco's Life Memorial Webpage and sign his online guest book at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com
