Donald Robert Grainda, 80, passed away on Christmas Morning, December 25, 2023, after a brave battle against debilitating nerve pain and cancer.

Don was born in Paterson, NJ to Frank and Anna Grainda. He is pre-deceased by his brother Jim Grainda.

He spent his middle and high school years attending LaSalle Military Academy in Long Island, NY which serendipitously created the opportunity for Don to make life-long friends who would introduce him to the love of his life, Barbara Ann Newton. Don and Barbara were married in March 1966, immediately preceding Don's deployment to serve his country in Vietnam as a proud member of the United States Marine Corps.

Upon his return from Vietnam, Don and Barbara made their first of three cross-country trips together. He loved to see this country and experience the vast differences of its landscape and people.

Don and Barbara raised their two daughters, Nicole and Abigail, in East Rockaway, NY. He spent 25 years working as a United Parcel Service driver and retired for a brief period before deciding to drive a taxi to fill his time. While Don would not describe himself as a "people person", he was never at a loss for words and befriended many. He was drawn to helping those in need and particularly those who may not have even realized they were "in need" in the moment. He was known for his humor and sarcasm, loyalty, and kindness. He was an avid card player, movie lover, history buff, and Jeopardy fan.

Don is survived by his wife Barbara of 57 years, his daughters, Nicole Bertoldi, and her husband Robert of North Andover, MA and Abigail Greenwood, of Kingston, MA, his beloved grandchildren Brendan and Elizabeth Greenwood, and his sister Karen Julewicz and her husband Bob, of Buckeye, AZ.

Don will be buried with full military honors on January 3, 2024, in a private ceremony at Bourne National Cemetery.