Racine – Donald Henry Vaillancourt passed away on October 7, 2014. He was born in Racine on April 15, 1927.
He retired as the Chief Electrical Inspector for the City of Racine in 1992. Prior to that he was a construction electrician for 22 years at Magaw Electric and Joseph J. Small. He attended school at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Racine.
Don married Carol (Christianson) on November 23, 1950. He is survived by her and his son Gary (Joy) Vaillancourt and daughter Cheryl (Tom) Gedemer. In addition, grandchildren Noelle (Eric) Davison, Nick Vaillancourt, Grant Gedemer (Chicago), Rachel (Steve) Hueffner (Chicago), and one great grandchild, Henry Hueffner. In addition, one brother-in-law Earl (Geri) Christianson Jr. and many other nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
He was preceded in death by his mother Maude (nee: Kast) and father Sidney Vaillancourt and six siblings: his sister, Cludia (Ed) Christensen; brothers Arnold (Ruth) Vaillancourt, Sidney (Marie) Vaillancourt Jr., Edward (Helen) Vaillancourt, Vincent “Dale” (Iris) Vaillancourt, and Ronald (Laura) Vaillancourt – his twin brother.
Don served in the United States Navy on LST 643 in the South Pacific for 2 years as an Electricians Mate 2nd Class. He received a Purple Heart during his service.
A “Jack of all Trades”, he volunteered for many years at St. Lucy Catholic Church; VFW Post 1391 (Life member); DAV Chapter 8; Boy Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps; Assistant Scout Master for Troop 400; and the Board of Directors for Toys-for-Tots. He had a special place in his heart for all animals, especially horses (his was named “Firefly”,) and the family dogs he cared for and walked on a daily basis.
At his request, there was no service or memorial. Don was laid to rest during a private crypt-side entombment at Holy Cross Cemetery. It was Don’s wish for no flowers, but instead memorials to Toys-for-Tots or St. Lucy Catholic Church.
The family expresses its appreciation to Hospice Alliance of Kenosha, and the staff of Ridgewood Care Center.
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