Donald Edward Croake (Don), 84, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2023, in Buffalo, NY. He was born July 7, 1938, in Malden, Massachusetts, son of the late Ruth Smith Croake and Edward Croake.
He is survived by his son Alexander F. Croake (Mary Frances), daughter Cheryl Marzziotti (Kathy), Alex’s mother Carolyn Tyson (Ron), 3 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Don was preceded in death by his brother Edward Croake (Dianne), and half-sister Elsie Mowatt.
After graduation from high school, Don served honorably in the U.S Air Force, including overseas postings. Upon leaving the service, he worked in manufacturing and operations in Delaware and Connecticut.
Don retired from Greenwich-Yale New Haven Hospital prior to moving to Buffalo in 2022, to live near his son, daughter-in-law, and 2 young grandsons, Calvin and Roland. He loved his time with the boys as “Grandpa Don.”
He was known for his practical jokes and corny stories, was an avid reader and coin collector, and had an extensive knowledge of military history. Don also raised and showed champion Basset Hounds, Clumber Spaniels, and Pembroke Welsh Corgis.
A graveside service is planned for a later date in North Conway, NH.