West Lebanon, NH - Donald R. Vesper Sr, 83, died peacefully on Tuesday May 14, 2024, at the Jack Byrne Center for Palliative and Hospice Care in Lebanon NH. Donald was born on December 28, 1940, in Randolph, VT to parents Owen and Elsie (Laura) Vesper and grew up in Royalton. He was a standout Multi Sport Athlete, being recognized as a Vermont All State Soccer Goalie.

After graduation from South Royalton High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as a firefighter at Fort Bragg. Following his Honorable Discharge, he returned to Vermont and married Barbara Francis and settled in Windsor to raise their four children. His work career started as a full-time Firefighter in the Windsor Fire Department and remained an On-Call Volunteer for many years. Donald changed careers and began servicing and maintaining vending and gaming machines starting at Recreational Sales and retiring from Allen's Vending Service.

He played in multiple Men's Softball & Bowling Leagues, took up golfing and loved to fish. He enjoyed watching car, horse, and dog racing, where he visited various tracks far and wide. Most of all, he was a dedicated supporter of all Windsor Boys & Girls sports teams, some of whom he coached in Little League. Donald's other interests included music, dancing, puzzles, bingo, playing cards and sitting by the water, be it ocean, lake, or river, with a good book and a picnic basket. Donald was happiest when he was amongst his family and embarked on many adventures with them. Donald was a people person and would strike up a conversation with anybody anywhere. He especially enjoyed it when the kids he coached and watched playing sports for 60 years took the time to say hello and chat with him as adults.

For the past 20 years, Donald called Quail Hollow home. He was known to take up a chair in the lobby or front walkway greeting and talking with his many dear friends.

Donald's family would like to extend special gratitude to his care teams at the White River Junction VA (especially Dr. Grossman), Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and the Jack Byrne Center.

He is survived by his three children, Donald Vesper Jr. and wife Gretchen of Windsor, VT, Diane Thompson of Jupiter, FL, and Shannon Bramhall of Port Saint Lucie, FL. Also, former spouse Barbara Fox of Jupiter FL, close companion, and friend Dot Murphy of West Lebanon NH. Six grandchildren Kristen, Ryan, Drew (Kaleigh), Michael, Austin (Maya), and Vanessa. One Great Grandson Kaden, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, a daughter Darlene Caroline, three brothers Herbert Renehan, William (Bill) Vesper, Myron Vesper, and life companion Connie Landry.

A graveside service will be held at 11am on Saturday, September 7th in the Ascutney Cemetery in Windsor, VT. A reception will follow at the Windsor Elks.

In Don's memory, make a new friend.