Donald F. Colthart

Donald F. Colthart, 87, of Holyoke, passed away at home on Dec. 15, 2018 after a short illness.  Don was born in Fall River, MA, son of Thomas M. and Frances (McMellon) Colthart. He was educated in the Holyoke school system and graduated from Holyoke High School in 1949. After graduation, Don enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served from 1949 to 1952, including 18 months in Korea.  After his military service, Don began his career with New England Telephone and Telegraph and retired from Verizon after a thirty-three year career. Don married his best friend and love of his life, Arlene Bain in June of 1954, and they recently celebrated 64 years of marriage.  Over many years, Don served as an active volunteer for several organizations, both in South Hadley and Deltona, FL. Don was a longtime member of the Mount Holyoke Lodge of Masons and Scottish Rite. He was an active member and past president of the reunion committee of the Air Force 5th Communications Group. After their marriage Don and Arlene moved to South Hadley, where they raised their family and lived for 28 years. Upon retirement, Don and Arlene moved to Deltona, FL, where they enjoyed living for 23 years. In 2009, they moved back to Holyoke to be closer to their family.  Don’s lifelong interests and pastimes included: golfing, reading, watching soccer and baseball, and travelling. Don is survived by his beloved wife Arlene (Bain) Colthart, daughters Donna (Rick) Lukasik of Springfield, Carol (Wayne) Pelis Manley of South Deerfield, and Nancy (Don) Alexander of Greenfield. He also leaves behind his 5 grandchildren, Carolyn (David) Rodriguez, Peter (Rachel Armstrong) Lukasik, Andrew Lukasik, Katie Alexander, Scott Pelis; one great-granddaughter, Fiona Rodriguez; as well as several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Don will also be missed by his siblings and nieces and nephews. The funeral will be held Friday, December 21st at 11:00 a.m. at the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street. Burial will be private. Calling hours will be held Thursday, December 20th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.  The family requests to please omit flowers and instead make a donation in Don’s memory to the Shriners Children’s Hospital.

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