Donald M. Lucier

Donald Melvin Lucier, 85, died September 29th in Elizabethtown, NY, a few miles away from where he made his home with his long-term partner, Michelle Ress in Willsboro, NY for 23 years. He loved the location, he could see Lake Champlain from his front windows and was less than a mile away from the
boat landing, which he frequented often, and enjoyed early morning fishing expeditions, even if no fish were caught!

Donald was born the son of Harry Lucier, Sr and Alice (Burrington) Lucier, in Williamsville, VT on October 1, 1934. He died just two days shy of his 86th birthday.

He joined the Navy under a program called "Kiddie Cruise" in the late 50's. This program allowed teenagers to sign up at age of 17, with a three-year enlistment, and you were discharged when you turned 21. He was proud of his service to his country, had fond memories of his Navy days, and that he
served in the Korean War. Later years he enjoyed sharing the many parts of the world that he was able to see because of his service. He was a proud Veteran, a long-standing Patriot of the United States of America, teaching his children to respect Old Glory, and the many lives that were sacrificed for this
country's freedom.

He married Kathryn Sumner on July 16, 1955. They were married for 29 years, had five children; Karen, Karla, Donna, Darlene and Douglas Lucier. He was not only handy but very talented in a large array of subjects, and also, quite humble about his vast skills. He did apprenticeships in Carpentry and Plumbing,
worked very hard to make a good living to provide for his family. He and Kathryn built two beautiful homes for their family in West Chesterfield, and later renovated a couple of homes where he resided with his partner, Michelle Ress. Had a business with his brother, Dick, worked for Harry E Winn for many years and worked for Economy Plumbing and Heating for almost three decades. Later years he became an entrepreneur, and worked part time up until a few years ago. He was a very kind, honest, hard working and good man who loved his children and family, and did all he could to help them succeed, helped with home projects, and much more.

As a father he set an example with a good moral compass, including honesty, work ethics, strived for excellence, and was always willing to help a friend or neighbor in need. He was an avid supporter of his children's interests including sports and activities, and became heavily involved in Keene Youth Hockey in
the 70's. In his younger years he enjoyed scuba diving.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, spending time with his family and friends. He loved to participate in fishing derbies in VT, NH & NY. He spent decades of Father's Day Weekend on Lake Winnipesaukee in NH in their fishing derby. A loyal son, brother, father, uncle, grandfather, and great grandfather, and partner.
He maintained long term friendships from his childhood years, and had many, many friends.

Donald was predeceased by his parents, his youngest and oldest daughters, Darlene, and Karen Lucier, a sister, Sandra (Lucier) Beichner, two brother-in-laws, and a sister in law.

He is survived by his longtime partner, Michelle Ress, His children, Karla (Charles) Young of Milton, FL, Donna Scully of Vernon, VT, Douglas Lucier of Spofford, NH. Six grandchildren, Joshua Young (Milton, FL), Kelly (Brandon) Spaugh of Welcome, NC, Alex Murray of Bullhead City, AZ, Ajay (Nicole) Lucier of Keene, NH, Brianna Lucier of Spofford, NH and Aubrielle Lucier of Keene, NH, seven great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild; His siblings, Richard (Dick) Lucier of Townshend, VT,Frank Lucier, Sr of Lake Wales, FL, Janice Bills of Brattleboro, VT, Harry Lucier of Hinsdale VT, many nieces and nephews, and Michelle's son, James Ress of CT.

He had a wonderful sense of humor, was proud of his and his children's accomplishments. Spoke often how he "Hadn't had a good night's sleep since his kids were born!" and will be missed more than words can say. His children rate him an A+++ dad! His daughters still vie for "Favorite Daughter" award, but we all knew, hands down, it was Darlene (Dar)! They were the best of buds!

SERVICES: Calling hours will be held at Ker Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium located at 57 High St. Brattleboro, VT 05301 on Thursday October 8th from 4 to 6 pm. Burial will take place on Friday October 9th at 11 am at Meeting House Hill Cemetery in Brattleboro, VT. Please note current restrictions limiting funeral home capacity to no more than 50%. Those in attendance are respectfully requested to wear face coverings and practice social distancing.

Donations can be made to Lewy body Dementia Association at https://www.lbda.org/donate/