Donald Caissie

SAFETY HARBOR, FL - Donald F. Caissie, 68, died September 26, 2015, in Safety Harbor, Florida, after a decades-long battle with multiple sclerosis. He is survived by his daughter, Beth (Amy Mayer) Caissie Iowa; two step daughters, Marcia (Jason) Cronin of Auburn and Amanda (Everton) Araujo of Marlboro; his brother, Robert (Mary) Caissie of Oxford; four grandchildren, one niece, and many cousins. He was predeceased by his loving and devoted wife who was the love of his life, Carmalita; and his parents, John and Ethel (Faneuf) Caissie. Don graduated from Oxford High School in 1965. He attended Worcester Junior College and Western New England College. He worked briefly as a credit/sales manager for Goodyear Tire and Rubber in Westfield. He and Carmalita settled in Florida and were longtime residents of Consulate Healthcare of Safety Harbor. Don was a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He loved racing stock cars, wildlife rescue, and slapstick comedy. He had a generous heart, a quick wit and a hearty laugh. He showed remarkable resolve and grace in his determination to be understood despite the difficulties others had understanding his speech. He strived to tell jokes and share stories no matter how often he had to repeat them to be understood. He didn't complain or give up and he accepted the challenges of being chronically ill without allowing the hardships to make him bitter. A graveside service for Don and Carmalita will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, October 23, 2015, at St. Roch's Cemetery in Oxford. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Don and Carmalita Caissie may be made to the National M.S. Society, 101A First Avenue, Waltham, MA 02451. Paradis-Givner Funeral Home in Oxford is directing the arrangements.