Donald Miskelly, 85, a longtime resident of Freedom, NH, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 23. He was raised in Plymouth and lived for 25 years in Rocky Hill, CT.
Don was a familiar face for over 17 years at the Conway Dinner Bell, volunteering at the weekly community dinner. He also was a member of the RSVP program and a board member for Ossipee Concerned Citizens for many years. He enjoyed giving time to his community and sharing his thoughts and ideas. His contributions were always made with passion and a genuine desire to make a positive impact.
Prior to moving to Freedom, Don had a landscaping business in Rocky Hill. He enjoyed his neighbors there who have remained lifelong friends. He retired to Freedom where he met Wendy and in 1994 they were married. He enjoyed their life on Ossipee Lake and friends they made in the area. He was enthusiastic about traveling, boating, having conversations, and eating lobster. Many are familiar with his lecture series that was open to all topics and not always 100 percent fact based. And he was legendary for the “butter-shorts” event at Old Orchard Beach.
Don was very proud of his hometown of Plymouth, where he and Wendy would travel several times per year to visit family and friends there. The Church of the Pilgrimage was his home church, and he treasured the Sundays he was able to attend service there.
Don is survived by his loving wife Wendy of Freedom. He was predeceased by his sister Lyn Peterson of Pawleys Island, SC, and his brother Robert E Miskelly of Amherst, NH.
Per Don’s request no services will be held. His remains will be taken to the columbarium at the Church of the Pilgrimage and a celebration of his life will be held during the summer.
If you are so inclined, donations in Don’s memory can be made to either: the Church of the Pilgrimage or the Plymouth Cordage Company Museum.