Donald John Healy
Born October 26, 1954 in White Plains, New YorkDeparted January 4, 2024 in Rockledge, Florida
Donald John Healy lived a full life. He considered himself a native Floridian by way of White Plains, New York and Danbury, Connecticut. Some knew him as Don, others as Donnie, DJ, Oscar, or UD (Uncle Don). He was a man of conviction with a sharp sense of humor. He was kind and exasperating by turn. Once you met him, you wouldn’t forget him. His big heart accommodated his many loves – his family (including his cats), his Air Force family, his hockey family, and the Danbury crew.
Don’s service to his country while serving in the United States Air Force defined him. Before retiring as a staff sergeant, he had served our country both stateside and overseas in Okinawa, Korea, and Iceland. While serving, he was the happiest when he worked on his beloved Phantom II aircraft.
In his 50’s, he decided to go back to college where he ended up meeting his adored wife, Karyn. He completed his A.A. in 2010.
Thanks to social media, Don reconnected with many of his middle and high school friends. He was too ill to attend his 50th high school reunion. However, his 40th was one of the happiest times of his life, being back in Danbury with his friends.
Don was a rabid Tampa Bay Lightning fanatic. He had been a fan of the “boys in blue” since they played at the Expo Center. Around 2008, he joined a group of hockey bloggers known as the Wallbangers, developing some dear friends in the process. His nome de plume was “Oscar,” later “Phantom.”
Don was a fortunate man. When asked how he was doing, his stock reply was, “Better than I deserve.” But he did deserve it. He was loved by so many people. He will be missed.
Please consider a donation in his memory to VITAS Hospice or HALO:
