Donald E. McKenzie, 85, passed away Wednesday December 11, 2024, at Kent Hospital in Warwick. He was the beloved husband of Karen E. (McKenna) McKenzie for 53 years. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late William and Doris E. (Scowcroft) McKenzie. Donald was the loving father of Kristine E. Wilkinson (Raymond) and Katherine L. McKenzie (Mark), loving grandfather of Andrew, Benjamin, Ryan and Riley. He was the brother of William McKenzie and the late 2LT Richard McKenzie.
Donald was a proud graduate of Warwick Veterans Memorial High School. He went on to earn his degree from Wentworth Institute of Technology, which laid the foundation for his career at Electric Boat in Groton, CT. While working at Electric Boat, Donald was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Donald returned to Electric Boat and excelled in his role as a Supervisor in the Optical Tool division. His dedication and skill defined his career until his retirement in 1996.
In retirement, Donald continued to give back, contributing to medical advancements by participating in long-term research studies with the Look AHEAD (Action for Health in Diabetes) program at Miriam Hospital. His involvement reflected his enduring commitment to helping others and making a difference in the lives of those around him.
Beyond his professional life, Don found immense joy and fulfillment in pursuing his passions. Never content to simply observe, he threw himself wholeheartedly into every endeavor. An avid skier, Don met the love of his life during a ski trip with the RISKI ski group, a moment that marked the beginning of a beautiful journey together.
Don was a familiar and dedicated presence at the Warwick West Side Pit, where he coached and managed his daughters' softball teams from t-ball through the senior league. His enthusiasm for sports and community was matched by his dedication to figure skating. As President of Warwick Figure Skaters, Don played a pivotal role in bringing several National Figure Skating Championships to Rhode Island. His passion extended further when he became an Ice Technician with US Figure Skating, traveling across the country to ensure competition ice met the highest standards.
Don will always be remembered for his warm and welcoming smile, his boundless generosity, and his willingness to lend a helping hand wherever it was needed. His presence in our lives was a true gift, and though his absence leaves a profound void, his memory will be cherished forever. We find comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the love he so freely shared with everyone around him.
His funeral will be held Saturday December 21, 2024, at 9:00 am from the Thomas & Walter Quinn Funeral Home, 2435 Warwick Ave., Warwick with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Kevin's Church, 333 Sandy Lane., Warwick. He will be laid to rest with military honors at RI Veterans Cemetery, Exeter. Visiting hours will be held Friday December 20, from 4-7pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Bishop Hendricken High School to support the BHHS Memorial Prayer Garden. 2615 Warwick Ave. Warwick, RI 02889.
Information and condolences visit, www.thequinnfuneralhome.com
