Obituary of Donald B. Gavitte

Donald Bruce Gavitte

1937 – 2018

Beloved family man, Eagle Scout, Airman First Class and Master Mechanic

Donald B. Gavitte, 80 of Long Island, NY, who moved to Staten Island at the age of 4, died peacefully on February 5.

Don was beloved by all who knew him as an honest, patient, and hard-working man who loved his family, country, and the aviation industry he was dedicated to for most of his life. Don was a humble man who did not seek, but still received, many awards and accolades in his life.

As a US Boy Scout, Don reached the rank of Eagle Scout in 1953 and graduated from McKee Vocational High School in 1956. After his honorable discharge from the United States Air Force in 1962, Don went on to graduate from the Academy of Aeronautics in 1964. Don's distinguished career in aviation would inspire those of his youngest son Peter, and brother-in-law Bob. In 1993, Don was given the highest civilian award for his support in Operations Desert Storm and Shield. In 2007, he received the Charles Taylor "Master Mechanic" Award from the Federal Aviation Administration for 50 years of service – a distinguished cap to a long and proud career.

Don is survived by his wife of 50 years, Angelica, his three sons, Donald, Richard and Peter and his three grandchildren, Samuel, Maya and Paulina.