Donald A. DeLuca

78, of Pocasset, MA, passed away on Thursday, December 12th, at Falmouth Hospital. He was the beloved husband and best friend of Patricia (Karas) DeLuca. Born in Cranston, RI, he was the son of the late Daniel and Rose (Franco) DeLuca.

Donald graduated from the Rhode Island Vocational Technical School in 1965, where he formed lifelong friendships and picked up the nickname "Duck." That same year he began his career as an Electronics Technician at Naval Air Station Quonset Point.

In 1973 Donald married Patricia and began attending school for the Federal Aviation Administration, moving them to Longmont, Colorado. While living in Colorado, they welcomed their daughter, Susan. In 1976, Donald took a position as a Radar Technician for the FAA at Otis ANGB on Cape Cod, MA. Their son Matthew was born and Donald and Patricia made their permanent home in Pocasset, MA.

Donald enjoyed his work immensely and loved sharing his passion for aviation with his family, often taking them to the control tower for front-row seats at local airshows. He dedicated 50 years to the FAA and was recognized for his commitment when he retired in 2020.

An avid electronics hobbyist, Donald was passionate about Amateur Radio and was a member of the Falmouth Amateur Radio Club, regularly attending their field day events. He took pride in his Italian heritage as a member of the Young Pannesse Social Club. Living by the ocean brought him joy, and he loved spending time fishing, digging for quahogs, or just sitting by the Cape Cod Canal with Patricia.

Donald enjoyed listening to his favorite oldies records, savored good food—especially clams and pasta—and loved engaging in lively conversation. His presence will be deeply missed around the dinner table.

Above all, Donald was a dedicated husband and father, finding his greatest joy in being with his family. In addition to his wife of 51 years, Patricia, he is survived by his loving son Matthew A. DeLuca, and daughter Susan Nabreski and her husband Andrew. He was a dear brother and brother-in-law to Diann Villanova and her husband, Richard, and a beloved uncle to his five nieces and their families.

His funeral services will be respectfully private.