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Donald Pearson Kinniburgh, 76, of Seekonk, MA passed away Friday, April 21, 2023. He was the beloved husband of Victoria (Wallkam) Kinniburgh for nearly fifty-three years. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Donald and Irene (Taylor) Kinniburgh. Along with his wife, he is survived by three sons, Scott A. Kinniburgh, his spouse, Heather, of Rehoboth, Todd C. Kinniburgh and his spouse, Kristine, of Clinton CT., and Chad W. Kinniburgh, of Pawtucket; his dearest grandchildren, Benjamin, Jeremy, Will, Alexa, Andrew, and Lyla Mae. He is survived by his siblings, Margaret Garant, and her husband James, Byron Kinniburgh, and his wife Rita, and his sister, Karen Stefanik; several nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and nephews; his adored dog, Skipper, cat Tinkerbell; his best friends, Joyce Dulude and the late Daniel Dulude and countless others.
Donald embodied the value of service to others. He was a Navy Veteran of the Vietnam War who served with pride for four years on the USS Shangri La from 1965-1969. He served as an Aviation Electrician's Mate, a role which took him around the world earning many awards, including the National Defense Service medal. Upon completion of his service, with help from the GI Bill, Donald was able to earn his Bachelors of Business Administration while working full time and raising a family. He worked for over 23 years as a supervisor with Durastone construction. In addition he worked as a budget analyst for the Bristol County Sheriff's office and veteran's agent for the Town of Seekonk Donald enjoyed telling stories about Skip's Place, a small family owned and operated diner in Cumberland, RI where he welcomed and served members of the community.
Donald's patriotism and passion for service and community was always present and evident in his pursuits and in the various roles that he accepted within his beloved Town of Seekonk. An image that captures this is that of Donald serving as the Grand Marshall of the Seekonk Memorial Day parade. There are countless examples but some highlights include his time as the leader of the Republican Party, former Selectman of the Town of Seekonk, member of the planning committee and personnel board for the town of Seekonk and Commander and historian of the Seekonk American Legion. He was also instrumental with the planning, building, and construction of the Seekonk Veterans Memorial located on the Seekonk Public Library grounds as well as the new Seekonk Senior Center. He tirelessly advocated for the needs of others. In addition to service, Donald found passion in gardening. He could often be found, with his dog Skipper by his side, tending to and cultivating his vegetable garden. Or perhaps, just sitting in the sun admiring his creation with pleasure and contentment.
Above all else, Donald valued his family and embraced his roles as Husband, Father, Grandpa, Brother, Uncle and Son. He was not boisterous in his love of family but rather had a steady and quiet way of always showing up. He showed up for everyone and everything. Even when showing up became effortful and difficult, he was there. Donald found simple and subtle ways to show that he was curious, paying attention and above all, proud of his family for who each of us is and for all of the little and big things each of us has accomplished. The steadiness of his love was most evident in his love for his devoted wife and love of his life Vicki. They walked together every step of the way. Her steadiness and devotion to him was clear as she was by his side, loving him and caring for him until she was assured that he was at peace.
Calling hours will be from 4-7pm Friday April 28, 2023 followed by funeral services with military honors Saturday April 29th at 11:30am at Costigan-O'Neill Funeral Home 220 Cottage St. Pawtucket, RI 02860 . In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either the Seekonk Animal Shelter or the Disabled American Veterans Department of Rhode Island.
Costigan-O'Neill Funeral Home
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Costigan-O'Neill Funeral Home
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