Donald L Brierley's Obituary
Donald L. Brierley, age 72, died peacefully on Friday, July 1st surrounded by his family. Don lived in Rehoboth Beach with his wife, Janice, of 45 years.
Don grew up in Newark, and was the youngest of ten children born to Robert and Minetta Brierley. Don is survived by his wife; Janice, his daughter and son-in-law; Jennifer and Wayne Kline, granddaughter; Ellen Katherine Kline, grandson; Ryan Christopher Kline, sisters; Alberta Timko and Melba Hill, sister and brother-in-law; Dorothy and Carl Wilson, brother and sister-in-laws; Robert and Lorene Brierley,William and Sheila Brierley, Jack and Reitha Brierley, and sister-in-law, Ginny Falgowski and husband, Ray. Don was preceded in death by his 38 year old son, Christopher Brierley, on June 24, 2011.
Don worked for Unisys for 20 plus years as a computer systems representative. He was a devoted husband and father spending many years living in Newport in a Colonial style home he beautifully maintained. Don and his wife relocated to Rehoboth upon retirement. Don built the Rehoboth home, and with Janice, created a home full of comfort and warm family memories.
Don was an expert in wood working, home improvements, and home repairs. It came natural to him, and he shared his talents with the people he knew and cared about. He built furniture, cabinets, and home additions, and handled plumbing and electrical repairs. He was a perfectionist, and never afraid to tackle a project. You could often find Don with his tool bag and pick-up truck, or in his workshop with a pencil tucked behind his ear, or making a visit to a friend’s house to design a piece of furniture or home improvement.
Don was a friend to many people, and we are grateful for the ways he touched our lives. He is remembered for his charitable, gracious nature, his respect for others, his patience, and positive attitude. He was a good listener and always made others feel welcome and comfortable. He most appreciated the simple things in life – a Sunday afternoon visit with family, a trip to the boardwalk with his daughter and grandchildren, a cup of coffee with friends, or catching a movie with his son. Don took great pride is his family– never missing an opportunity for a visit or time together. He was giving and kind to others, and surrounded us with his love, friendship, and sense of humor.
Memorial services will be held on Thursday, July 7, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to: Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, Delaware 19963.
Arrangements by: Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Lewes
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