Donald R. Molinaro , 81,of Clearfield died Thursday, July 19, 2012 at his home. He was born Aug. 28, 1930 in Royal Oak, MI, a son of the late Anthony and Esther (Burger) Molinaro.
Mr. Molinaro had an early interest in sailing on the Great Lakes as a boy, which led him to become a member of the U.S. Navy. He held a position as range finder on a Destroyer and was active during the Korean conflict.
After his service, he quickly found himself a technician in the “new” field of computers. His career was spent working with Raytheon, Telos and NCR as subcontractors to the armed services. He provided technical hardware maintenance and repair for critical military operations at bases all across the Northeast U.S. He also enjoyed volunteering his time with the Historical Society in Algonac, MI.
He was a member of West Side United Methodist Church, Clearfield.
Mr. Molinaro spent his retirement traveling to visit old friends, his children in North Carolina and eastern Pennsylvania and many local businesses to distribute candy. Always interested in others, he never let a door close on someone or missed the opportunity to lend a hand or encouragement. He was always quick with a joke to a cashier or a compliment to a pretty woman and was also the epitome of good manners and respect.
He is survived by three children, Bethany Butler and her husband, Don of Clearfield; Dawn Molinaro of Clayton, NC; and Andrew Molinaro and his wife, Heide of East Stroudsburg; seven grandchildren David, Kristen and Lauren Butler, Chandler and Colton Molinaro and Jacob and Elise Molinaro; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce (Quigley) Molinaro on Aug. 15, 1988; a sister, Dolly Wildren; and two brothers, Richard Molinaro and Robert Gronlund.
A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Monday at the Crown Crest Memorial Park, Hyde.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to American Cancer Society, 26 South Second St., Clearfield, PA 16830.
The Kevin A. Beardsley Funeral Home, Clearfield, is in charge of arrangements.
To sign the online guestbook, go to www.beardsleyfuneralhome.com.