Donald Roland Brassard

Donald Roland Brassard — Born in Woonsocket Rhode Island to Irene and Donald Brassard. Don was a man whose strength, intelligence, and warmth touched everyone lucky enough to know him. A husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, and friend.

Born on April 23, 1958, Don was a man of deep convictions and power. He served his country proudly in the United States Air Force from 1976-2000, a chapter of his life that shaped his discipline, his sense of purpose, and his appreciation for integrity and responsibility.

Don met Becky when she was just 17 years old, and from that moment on, they were inseparable. Theirs is a love story defined by loyalty, laughter, and an unbreakable bond. They grew together, weathered life’s storms side by side, and built a life rooted in love and trust. Through every chapter, whether filled with joy or challenge, Don remained Becky’s rock, her partner, and her person. Together they raised six children, and to them, Don was so much more than a father, he was a mentor and a powerful example of what it means to live a life of principle. He believed in striving for excellence because he believed we are all capable of greatness. He taught his children to work hard, aim high, and, above all, earn respect.

Don was unbelievably smart with the kind of sharp, quick wit that could turn a quiet moment into a conversation you’d never forget. He was charismatic, effortlessly drawing people in with his insight, his humor, and his genuine interest in others. If you ever played him in trivia or poker, you knew to brace yourself, he had a brain like a steel trap, a sharp eye, and a passion for knowledge that never faded.

Don loved music of almost every kind. From rock to classical, country to jazz, he found joy in the rhythm, the lyrics, and the stories behind every song. Music was one of his great joys, a universal language he spoke fluently and shared generously with those around him.

He believed in giving credit where it was due. If you did something well, Don would be the first to acknowledge it not just with words, but with a genuine appreciation that made you feel seen and valued. He lifted up those around him, not only with loud praise, but with sincere encouragement that made you want to do and be better.

He is survived by his beloved wife Becky, his six cherished children: Daniel (Mary), Jeremy (Jessica), Mathew (Heather), Bethany (Skyler), Paul (Laura), and Sarah (Tim), his fourteen grandchildren: Seth, Jared, Devin, Scarlett, Lucy, Clark, Stella, Jennifer, Aurora, Emma, Ellie, Bruce, Carlin, and Roland, and his dear sister Donna, all of whom carry pieces of his spirit within them. His wisdom, his humor, and his unwavering belief in those he loved will remain with them always.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that Don is at peace. He served his country, loved his family fiercely, and left behind a legacy of honor, intellect, and love.

Rest in peace, Donald Roland Brassard. Your story doesn’t end here, it lives on in the people you shaped, the love you gave, and the life you so proudly lived.