LTC Donald L. Consolmagno, US Army RET, 76, of Worcester passed away Monday, March 14th 2011 with family by his side.
Donald was born in Worcester, youngest son of the late Luke and Anna (LaMotta) Consolmagno. He graduated from Classical High School and earned his Bachelor’s degree from Norwich University class of 1956, he then entered the U.S. Army to serve his country during the later years of the Korean Era. He met his devoted wife of 53 years Marianne (Ziegler) Consolmagno while stationed in Germany; they married and have lived in Worcester all their life.
In addition to his wife Marianne; Donald is survived by a son Stephen J. Consolmagno and his wife Janet of Burlington; three granddaughters, Jessica, Monica and Courtney; a brother, Robert H. Consolmagno and his wife Dorothy of Spencer; a brother-in-law, Adolph Ziegler and his wife Theresa; two sisters in law, Martha Baumer, and Barbara Schaller and her husband Norbet all in Germany; many nieces, nephews and a host of friends. His daughter, Andrea (Consolmagno) Austin passed away April 8th of 2010. A brother, Dr. James J. Consolmagno and a sister, Jean Foley also pre deceased him.
Donald spent his working life was in communications. His specialty was marketing and public relations. He began his career after the Army with State Mutual Life Insurance and later with defense contractor Textron. Donald then formed his own company Communications Specialists Inc. Upon returning from Active duty with the Army, Donald also began a National Guard military career part time spanning over 30 years with the Massachusetts Army National Guard 26th Yankee Division, attaining the rank of LTC and Public Information Officer before retiring.
He was a longtime active member of the Massachusetts Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company serving after retirement as full time executive secretary for over 5 years and attending most activities and fall tours of duty.
He was also a member of Blessed Sacrament church, the Worcester Lodge of Elks, and a former member of the Northborough J.C.’s. Donald loved sports; he was a standout basketball player while at Norwich University and a great fan of New England Sports teams, the Red Sox, Patriots and Celtics. He was also a family man who cared very much for them and their well being. Donald loved life, his family and his friends. They gave him joy and inspiration.
Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Thursday March 17th from 4 pm to 8 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPE, 370 Plantation St. His funeral with Full Military Honors will be held Friday, March 18th from the funeral home with a Mass at 10:00 am in Blessed Sacrament Church 555 Pleasant St. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.