Obituary of Donald Dornback

Donald about to enter the road to the western-most point in Ballybunion, Ireland, from where the first wireless trans-Atlantic communication was transmitted Donald Lee Dornback, 88, of Dennis, MA, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 8, 2018 at his daughter’s home in Barrington, RI. Born in Bratenahl, Ohio to the late William H. and Amelia Dornback, he lived most of his early life in Ohio. In 1952 Don married his college sweetheart, the late Marcia Greene, with whom he had 4 children. Together, they moved to Cape Cod in 1967. Don was an affable and energetic man with a great sense of humor and a strong love for his family. He began his career as an engineer and designer of innovative heating systems for the Dornback Furnace Company, the family's multinational business. After leaving Cleveland, he enjoyed many days and nights traveling around Cape Cod providing expert heating services to customers who were often touched by his heart of gold. He loved paintings and decorative arts and led a vibrant social life. His kindness, generosity, and cheerful nature won him a large network of adoring friends. He loved social events and to go dancing, always smiling and smartly dressed. Don was preceded in death by his wife Marcia and his siblings William Dornback, Ruth Shie, Robert Dornback, Ann Jackson, and his twin David Dornback. Don is survived by his four children and their spouses, for whom he felt deep love and pride: Debbie and Allen Machon of East Dennis, MA, Kimberly and Douglas Burtt of Barrington, RI, Donald Jr. and Josie Dornback of Dennis, MA and Catherine and Chris Boucher of Gloucester, MA. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and many loving nieces, nephews, and friends. A graveside memorial will be held Saturday January 13, 2018 at 11AM at the Woodside Cemetery on Summer Street in Yarmouthport, MA. Memorial donations may be made in Don's name to the Cape Cod Museum of Art, 60 Hope Lane, Dennis, MA.