Donald J. Dapra, Sr.

Due to family illness the services for Mr. Dapra have been cancelled. We will let you know if there will be any future services. Donald Dapra, Sr. (85) of Orange Park, FL passed away at home on July 30th with his three children by his side. He was born on October 14th, 1935, in Pittsburgh, PA to Casimir and Christina (Freliche) Dapra. He grew up in Universal and graduated from Penn High School. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Navy beginning his 26-year career and retiring in 1979 as a Master Chief. During his military career he proudly served aboard both the USS Randolph and the USS Forrestal. While serving on the USS Forrestal he received the designation of Launching Officer, a qualification normally reserved only for commissioned officers. He was one of only three enlisted men in the Navy at that time qualified with this designation. His service also included time spent in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. Prior to his retirement he was asked to serve as MCPON (Master Chief of the Navy) to which he declined in order to move his family to Florida, where he eventually retired. Being from Pittsburgh, he was an avid Steelers fan. He shared his passion for the sport and the team with his children and grandchildren every chance he had. If he wasn’t watching football, you would probably find him tuned into the SyFy Channel. Don is preceded in death by his parents and loving wife, Carolyn “Kay” Hultz Dapra of 62 years. Don is survived by his children: Don Dapra, Jr. (Lynda), Tina Hodges (Ron) and Denese Lee; Grandchildren: Kevin, Matt, Brandi and Cody; Great-grandchildren: Cole, Caysen, Caleb and Coral; Brother, Casimir “Cashie” Dapra; Sister, Carol Reynolds (Harold) and numerous nephews and nieces.