Donald A. Giancaterino, 79, of Pingree Grove, died peacefully on Tuesday, August 1, 2023.
Donald was born in Lackawanna, New York on October 31, 1943, to parents Adolph and Katherine (nee Ventura) Giancaterino, living a life of purpose, humor, and love, leaving an unforgettable imprint on everyone he met.
Don was a proud product of the Lackawanna, New York public school system, where he discovered his passion for nursing. After high school, he attended the former Alexian Brothers School of Nursing in Chicago, Illinois focusing on Coronary Care to which he remained dedicated for over forty years. Opening the Coronary Care unit for Alexian Brother Hospital in Elk Grove Village, Illinois and retiring as Manager of Recruitment Ancillary & Clinical Services in the Human Resources Department.
Donald was a devoted husband for over fifty-three years to the former Helen Halstead with whom they share a unique love story, creating six loving children who bestowed him the title “Papa” many times over.
Don is survived by his beloved wife, Helen, his children, Michelle Giancaterino, Jason Giancaterino, Steven (Domenica) Giancaterino, Kathryn (James) Harris, Sarah (Tobin) Axelson, and Craig (Meghan) Giancaterino, his grandchildren, Alex, Emma, Hayley, Ryan, Abigail, Tipper, Giulia, Koen, Trent, Jacob, and Donald James, and his sister, Donna Lauffer and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his grandchild, Gunner James.
Big Donald’s legacy will continue to live on through his family, his friends, and the countless lives he touched. His strength, humor, and love have left an indelible mark that will forever be cherished. “Papa” will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Visitation will be Tuesday, August 8, 2023, from 4 p.m. to time of prayer vigil 7 p.m. all at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley.
Mass will be Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at 10 a.m. with a visitation the hour prior, all at St. Mary Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley.
The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association in his name.
For further information, please contact the DeFiore Funeral Home 847-515-8772.
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Helen and kids. What a blow when I read of Don's passing on FB. I enjoyed being in Don's company every time it presented itself. The times however were not frequent enough. My sincerest condolences and prayers are with the entire family. Check out the lyrics 'The only scars in Heaven'.
My deepest condolences to Helen and the rest of the family and friends. Don was a wonderful person to know and have the pleasure of working with at Alexian Brothers Medical Center. Very kind always, a wealth of information and many great stories to tell. Blessings to you all as he rests in peace with our Lord.
I Miss you and I Love you Dad
I cherish the memories we made together, I love you Papa.
Dad/ Papa, The memories, laughter and love you have shared with us over the years will forever be cherished… Thank you for leaving your mark on all of our hearts… you will forever be loved and missed dearly
Dear Helen and Family, Our dear Cousin Donald is truly one of the most wonderful examples of person who always put "FAMILY FIRST" We will always cherish our memories of 99 palm street, Lackawanna, NY with his parents hosting so many holidays with our aunts, uncle's and cousins. Donald will always be remembered for his ability to organize, create, and make family events happen. We know that Our Maker will enjoy his "planning abilities" and his long-lasting impact, will make heaven even brighter. Our Love, Sharon & Andrew Ventura
Don is now sharing his most incredible love talents in heaven, a true gift from God. When my brother Rich passed, Don left a far away trip to show up at the funeral home, standing outside like one of God’s chosen. Don was standing waiting I truly believe to comfort me. Don & Rich lived their lives like brothers through high school, staying in contact for decades. Rich in Buffalo, Don in Chicago. I remember the two of them speeding off on their bicycles, on Palm street heading to the baseball Diamond at McKinley Elementary school, baseball gloves hanging from the handle bars, white high top sneakers. I was so jealous that I was only 8 years old at the time, too young to play with the 12 year big kids. I remember sitting on the floor eating popcorn with Don & Rich. We were watching a show called Inersanctum on the incredible black & white tv. A giant bowl of popcorn made by Aunt Kate. Just a glimpse down memory lane. Precious memories. Over the last few years Don and I played internet detectives looking for the resting place of our uncle Giuseppe Giancaterino. To this day we were not able to locate his grave. But, now Don has gotten to meet Uncle Joe, and Aunt Marie Giancaterino who passed when they were just kids. Our Dad’s were brothers, making us first cousins. What an incredible honor for me. For all of eternity. Love you Don, my new big brother! See you when I get there.
Losing a loved one is never easy, and I can only imagine the pain and sorrow you must be feeling. Your father must have been an incredible man, raising a son like you who serves our country with such dedication and honor. I am sure he was incredibly proud of your accomplishments and the positive impact you have made on the lives of others. During this difficult time, it is important to lean on your loved ones for support and to remember the precious memories you shared with your father. Cherish the moments you had together and find solace in knowing that his love and guidance will always be with you. May your father's spirit find peace, and may you and your family find comfort in the love and support of those around you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Please accept my deepest sympathies once again. Stay strong, and may the memories of your father bring you some measure of comfort during this challenging time. With heartfelt condolences, Jonathan Amoakohene (Jon)
our deepest sympathy to Helen and family and friends. knowing Don was knowing a caring person and always a friend.
Whenever I reminisce about our days at ABH, I think of Don with the utmost fondness. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
8/5/23 Dear Helen and family, My sincere condolences at the recent passing of your beloved Don. He was a good husband, father, and family man. I recall his excitement telling me of your cruise to Italy a couple years ago. May the good Lord have mercy on his soul and welcome him into the Heavenly Kingdom. And may the Peace of His Spirit that is beyond all human understanding gently descend upon each and every one of your grieving hearts. Bill Halm
I didn’t have a chance to meet Donald in person, nonetheless I’d like to express my condolences and those of my family to our Giancaterino cousins from Italy. May he rest in peace.
To Helen and all your dear kids now adults my deepest sympathy. Your dad was a great hearted man… You were I’ll be sorely missed, always loved, And mostly a lost of a dear friend. To our eternal buddies pray for us as we do for all of you! Geri Allaire
Helen and family - we am so very sorry. Our deepest condolences.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
I remember, when I was a little girl, being in awe of my big cousin Don and my big brother Rich, they were not just cousins but best buddies. I thought they were so cool and as handsome as movie stars, bigger than life. I idolized them, as little ones do with their older loved ones, they were 13 years older than me and were sometimes father-figures and guardians (super heroes?!) for me. Don moved away after high school and he was greatly missed by our family, but he was where he was called to be. He and Helen built a beautiful family that became a model for the kind of family I hoped to one day have. In recent years we’ve been able to spend some time together in Florida and he and I were doing some ancestral research, we shared some family stories, memories and had lots of laughs. He reminded me in many ways of my late beloved brother Rich, and I felt Rich close whenever we were together. I’m so grateful for the times together the last few years, for the phone calls and for being able to keep up with his family on Facebook. Don was one of the good ones, devoted to his family and he loved unconditionally. I picture him with Rich in white T-shirts with the sleeves rolled up, flat-top hair cuts checking out some sleek ‘57 Pontiac (was it Jack Verbanoff’s?). So many memories. You blessed us all, cousin Don. You will be missed, but I can only imagine the joyous reunion you’ve had with all those loved ones who’ve gone before. Oh! And to be face to face with our Savior!! Prayers for comfort and peace for Helen, Michelle, Jason, Katie, Steven, Sarah and Craig and their families, much love to you all.
So sorry to hear of the passing of Donald. Please except my deepest sympathy to you and your children and grandchildren. Prayers to all ..