Obituary of Donald Gilles Soucy

Donald “Don” Gilles Soucy was born on November 27, 1952 in Van Buren, Maine to Harry and Gertrude (Thibodeau) Soucy. He attended St. Thomas Aquinas High School in New Britain and went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry from Central Connecticut State University and a Master’s Degree in Organic Chemistry from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Don was an organic chemist and rocket scientist with prior employment at Pfizer, retiring after 35+ years at Aerojet. His work contributed to the successful launch of the Minute Man Missile amongst many other fascinating projects. Don always had time for his hobbies which included bowling, playing golf, and watching Bronco and 49er football games. He was an enthusiastic photographer, had a passion for theatre and live arts, enjoyed cooking, and loved nature and animals - often rescuing them when he could. Most of all he was a devoted father who found joy in supporting all of his daughters’ endeavors. Don was known as a jokester/prankster amongst his family, friends and healthcare staff with a sense of humor that could challenge even the sternest of people. His respect for learning and science led him to read as much as possible even up until his final days.

Don is survived by his former spouse Petrina Chiovitti, daughters Sarah Soucy and Danielle Soucy, son in laws Jason Danli and Ryan DeGange, sister Rella Bernabucci, brother in law Richard Bernabucci, nephew Corey Bernabucci and nieces Heather Colapinto and Elaine Ziemba.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harry & Gertrude Soucy.

He had membership in organizations such as Boy Scouts of America and the American Chemical Society.

On January 29, 2023 Don passed away peacefully at Yale Hospital in New Haven, Connecticut surrounded by family after a long battle with illness; he will be remembered fondly for the love he shared with those around him.

On February 3, 2023 Don was laid to rest at St Mary’s Cemetery with a private ceremony followed by a celebration of life held at a later date open to all who knew him or were touched by his life. While we mourn the loss of our beloved father, brother, uncle and friend we take solace knowing that we have been blessed by having known Don during our lifetime.