Donald Walter Erion, Jr.

Donald Walter Erion, Jr., 81, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home in Saint Augustine, FL on September 1st, with his devoted wife/life partner, Nancy, and daughter, Lisa, by his side.

Don grew up in Nashua, NH, the son of Donald & Eleanor Erion, and spent his summers at the family’s home on Lake Sunapee, where his love for the water first began. He later attended Vermont Academy, followed by the University of Vermont. He spent his career working as a manufacturer’s rep, primarily for outdoor and ski apparel companies.

In 1990, he married the love of his life, Nancy, and they were happily married for 34 years; many commented that they ‘acted like they were still on their honeymoon’ after all those years together. Their blended families (each bringing three children to the marriage) emulated a “Brady Bunch” type of relationship. After a successful career in real estate, Nancy later joined him in his ski rep business, which enabled them to work and travel together, while making lifelong friends along the way.

After their retirement, they split their time between their homes in Portsmouth, NH and Saint Augustine, FL, with the goal of remaining close to the water. After arriving in FL in 2005, via the intercoastal waterway in their Carver Motor Yacht, the next chapter of their lives began. They settled into the community of Marsh Creek, where they’ve enjoyed golfing and creating a large friend group. An accomplished golfer, Don was part of a men’s group, “The Breakers”, for many years, which earned him countless golf championships/trophies, including a coveted parking spot at the club. More importantly, his love for golf was shared with Nancy’s sons, Kurt & Eric, whom he played in many tournaments with over the years.

Don (aka “Bucko) will be remembered for his big personality and sense of humor (although sometimes slightly inappropriate) and his immense love and caring for Nancy and their respective families.

Don is predeceased by his parents; step-mother, Jessie; brother, Bruce Erion, and his son, James Erion. He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy, and his children; Lisa Stone (Derek, Libby & Jackson); Marcia Erion (Ron); Jim’s family (Sara & Astro); his bonus family (Nancy’s children and grandchildren) Kendra Hackett (Ethan & Sam); Kurt Sell (Amy & Addison) and Eric Sell. His siblings: Judith Enright, Linda Burg (Fred), Eleanor Clough and Bruce’s widow, Terri Erion.

The family will be forever grateful to the amazing nurses/angels of Vitas Hospice & Palliative Care. A private gathering to celebrate Don’s life will be held at a later date, followed by a spreading of his ashes in the ocean, in Portsmouth, NH.