On October 22, 2010, Donald G. Stockford of Stonybrook Road, Gales Ferry and Peppard Drive, Fort Myers Beach, Florida, passed peacefully away surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born March 17, 1934 in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Margaret (Redling) and Frank N. Stockford. The family settled in Winthrop, Maine where Don was educated, graduating in 1952 from Winthrop High School. He continued his education at the Maine Maritime Academy, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Engineering in 1955. Upon graduating, Don served in the U.S. Navy, earning the rank of lieutenant. Early in his career he was employed as an operating engineer for various steamship companies. In 1963, he began a long and fulfilling career in various supervisory capacities at the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics in Groton, Ct., retiring in 1995.

Central to Don's life was his marriage of 55 years to Christina (Mangin) of Winthrop, Maine, who survives him. Together, they raised three children: Michael, Jon, and Debra (Marmaud), in Gales Ferry, CT, then enjoyed an active retirement, wintering among dear friends at Bayside Estates in Fort Myers Beach, Florida.

Don excelled at a number of hobbies including woodworking, fishing and boating. He was particularly proud of The Maine Retreat, a 32 foot cabin cruiser he owned in the late 1980's. Don's greatest enjoyment though, came from time spent in the company of his family. His children and their spouses Cheryl, Carol, and Joseph have learned by Don's example the value and strength of family. They will strive to continue to pass this legacy. Don's grandchildren: Katelyn, Christina, David Jon, David Jordan, Cullen, Megan and Jessica will miss their grandfather's sense of humor and his willingness to be silly- never hesitating to wear the ridiculous wigs, ties and other garb purchased in honor of the birthday he celebrated on St. Patrick's Day. Even as they grew into adults Don's grandchildren chose to spend their free time with their grandfather, a true testament to the unconditional love and unfaltering support they received from their grandparents. In addition to his wife and children, Don will be dearly missed by his sister, Joan Fontaine of Winthrop, Maine and his brother Richard Stockford of Bangor, Maine, several nieces, nephews and dear friends.

The family invites those who wish to celebrate Don's life to Saint David's Church on Route 12 in Gales Ferry on Monday, October 25, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Don's name are requested to Hospice of Southeastern Connecticut.