Donald E. Durand, Sr.

Donald E. Durand, Sr., 76, a longtime resident of West Haven died at his home on December 6, 2025.  He was the beloved husband of Mary Kelly Durand.  Together they had five children: Lisa (James) Cannon, Donald (Natasha), Michelle (John) Barile, Christopher (Amber) and Patrick; ten grandchildren Jeremy, Abby, Paige, Donald III, Johnny, Jason, Kaylee, Nova, Harley and Domenic and three great grandchildren Charlotte, Grace and Theodore.   Don was the brother of Thomas and David Durand, Nancy Keyes and the late William Durand. 

During the Vietnam War, Don proudly served two years in the Navy and received the Vietnam Service medal.  He retired from Sheet Metal Union Local #40. Posthumously, he received his 50 year anniversary pin. Generous with his time, Don volunteered at church bingo, carnivals and as an usher at weekly mass until his illness prevented him from doing so. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.  Known for his lively sense of humor, Don entertained family and friends alike with his jokes and stories.

Visitation will take place on Thursday December 11 from 4 to 7 pm at the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. On Friday morning a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. John XXIII parish at St. John Vianney Church at 9:30. Entombment of his cremains, with military honors, will take place at 1 pm in the State Veterans Cemetery, Middletown. 

Please omit flowers.  In the spirit of the season and to honor Don’s generosity, please consider bringing an unwrapped toy to the wake.  All toys will be donated to the West Haven Firefighter’s Toys for Tots Holiday Drive.

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