Donald W. Protheroe Sr

Donald Wesley Protheroe Sr., 80, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2011 in Worcester, MA surrounded by his family. Born February 2, 1931 in Brooklyn, NY, the son of the late John Francis and Jane Woodruff Protheroe. Don attended schools in Hartford and New Haven graduating from Hill House High School in New Haven. Drafted in 1952, Don served in the Army during the Korean conflict. In 1955, Don married Barbara Anne Dodd. Later, Don continued his schooling, ultimately earning his Doctorate from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI in 1967. He taught at both Penn State University and the University of Connecticut School of Education, retiring in 1989. Don's passion for antique automobiles and woodworking kept him involved in a number of interesting projects throughout his life. He was an active member of his community serving on various boards and committees. Don is survived by wife Barbara of Ashford, son Don Jr. and daughter-in-law Molly Protheroe of Rockland, Maine, daughter Parrish Protheroe and son-in-law Mario Bellizzi of Mansfield Center, four granddaughters: Emily, Maria, and Sophia Protheroe, and Anna-Maraya Bellizzi, - and Blitz. Don was predeceased by two brothers, John W. and David G. Protheroe, and a sister, Irma Perry. His family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday Feb. 15th between 5:00 and 7:00pm at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195) Willimantic. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday Feb. 16th at First Church of Christ Congregational, 549 Storrs Rd. (Rte. 195) Mansfield Center. In lieu of flowers contributions in his honor may be made to the Ashford Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 1, Ashford, CT 06278 or to the charity of your choice. For online memorial guestbook and directions to the funeral home, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com .