Donald J. Vecchiarello

Donald J. Vecchiarello passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 6 at Regional Hospice in Danbury, CT. He was born on May 25,1937, in Mount Vernon, NY, to the late Sabato and Katerina (Sucha) Vecchiarello. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 57 years, Ellen (Abbatecola), his children Gina (John) Kappes and Donald (Shannon) Vecchiarello, Jr. , his wonderful grandchildren Katerina, Christian and Lily Kappes, Nicolas and Julia Vecchiarello, as well as his brother Richard and various nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Don was a graduate of A. B. Davis High School in Mount Vernon,

Class of 1956. He worked for many years at the former Mount Vernon Savings and Loan as Assistant Secretary and finished his career at Yonkers Savings Bank as a Branch Manager. Don was also a Past Grand Knight of the Mount Vernon chapter of the Knights of Columbus.

Don raised his family in Pelham, NY, and was well known and liked throughout the community. He served as an umpire in the town softball league for nearly two decades and once ran for the Village Board of Trustees in the late 80s.

Don was a die hard New York Yankees fan and had the privilege of watching Yogi Berra, Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle play. He also attended the last Opening Day at the original Yankee Stadium with his son-in-law and grandchildren. It was so nice they had to do it twice as the game was rained out! Fortunately, the Yankees beat the Toronto Blue Jays that day, 3-2.

Don was an avid fisherman who could tell when fish were biting without even looking at the pole. He would put his finger on the fishing line and could feel with his index finger the pull of the fish on the line and it was always “the big one!” Don also had a great love for gardening and was always in search of growing the perfect tomatoes for his beloved family gravy.

Don was the kindest, most gentle soul who treated everyone as if they were family, and always had a kind word for both friends and strangers alike.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that you send a donation in his name to Regional Hospice The Center for Comfort Care & Healing 30 Milestone Road Danbury, CT 06810