Donald F. DeToro, 72, of Middletown passed away peacefully on February 20, 2024 with his family by his side. Donald was the beloved husband of Elsie G. DeToro and the son of the late Floremond and Mary DeToro.

Born on June 6, 1951, Donald was a lifelong resident of Middletown. He attended local schools, Saint Thomas More School, St. Michael's College, and Husson College. Donald met his wife, Elsie, on a blind date and so began their life together. They married in 1978 and raised three lovely children. Through the years, Donald worked for his father, "Whitey," at DeToro Electric Co. before joining OTIS Elevator in 1982. With his professional experience, he became a jack of all trades and could troubleshoot any problem, always willing to help anyone in need. They say people with a good sense of humor have a better sense of life. Donald was well-known for his quick wit. Even in the hardest of times, he would find a way to make people laugh. He was kind to everyone who crossed his path. He treasured his relationships with his buddies. He enjoyed nice cars, The Eagles, and a good donut. He was a skilled boatman, fisherman, and hunter. Donald held a deep appreciation for nature and developed a special connection to the Long Island Sound as he, and four generations of his family, spent many joyful years on the beaches of Westbrook. Donald's journey became complicated when he was diagnosed with liver disease at age 50. Through divine intervention and the expertise of the Hartford Hospital Transplant team, he received a liver transplant in 2000 and, miraculously, a second in 2004. While Donald fought each and every challenge, he accepted his fate gracefully without complaint, and with palpable gratitude for what he called the "extra" years of his life. He had the opportunity to see his three children graduate from high school and college, get married, and begin families of their own. He enjoyed a happy life alongside his devoted wife of forty-five years. The two made the most of their retirement by showering their grandchildren with love, spending fun times with close friends, and taking drives to the shore in their MG convertible. Their home was their sanctuary where Donald could be found on his deck grilling or relaxing in the sun. Simple pleasures. Whether traveling abroad with the Mrs. or simply riding his revered zero-turn mower around the lawn, he never took his time for granted.

Donald is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Elsie, his children, Don & Sarah DeToro of Higganum, Emily & Joseph Cunningham of Middletown, and Ann & Mark Ferguson of Kensington, as well as his beautiful grandchildren, Mckenna, Landon, Charlie, and Grace, including two grand-dogs, Atticus and Penny. He leaves two sisters and brothers-in-law, Donna & James Malady of Vermont and Debra & Robert Langer of Killingworth. Donald will be missed by several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who are considered family.

The DeToro family would like to thank Donald's extraordinary group of health care professionals for their unwavering support. We are eternally grateful to Dr. Jonathan Siegel as well as the staff at Hartford Hospital for the years of outstanding care and never-ending compassion. We extend our deepest gratitude to our donor families who gave Donald that precious gift of time, and to our amazing family and friends who continue to express their love in so many ways.

Calling hours will be Wednesday, March 6, 2024 from 4-7 p.m. at D'Angelo's Funeral Home, 22 S Main St., Middletown. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Pius X Church, 310 Westfield St., Middletown.

In lieu of flowers, donations to honor Donald's memory may be made to the American Liver Foundation. Please consider becoming an organ donor.