Donald Joseph Nowicki

Donald Joseph Nowicki of Windermere, Florida, passed away on Friday, October 9, 2026, at the age of 91. He was born on March 10, 1935, in Natrona, Pennsylvania, a hardworking community along the Allegheny River, northeast of Pittsburgh.

Growing up in Natrona, Donald was surrounded by strong family ties, cherished traditions, and a close-knit community where neighbors looked after one another, friendships lasted a lifetime, and hard work in the local mills and factories was a source of pride. His Polish heritage and Catholic faith were central to his upbringing, fostering an appreciation for family, friendship, and life's simple pleasures. A 1953 graduate of Har-Brack High School, he carried the values of kindness, generosity, loyalty, and quiet strength throughout his life.

Following high school, Donald attended Clarion State College. He later served his country in the United States Army Reserve as a member of the 9th Howitzer Battalion, 43rd Artillery, Fourth United States Army. Shortly after their wedding, his new bride, Gerri, joined him at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where they made their first home. Those early years, filled with the experiences of military life and the joys of newlywed life, marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership built on love, commitment, and shared adventures.

Donald enjoyed a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years with Libbey-Owens-Ford Company, where he supervised specialty glass applications for the automotive, telescope, and aerospace industries. He took particular pride in his contributions to projects involving the specialized gold coatings used on astronauts' helmet visors, a remarkable connection to America's space exploration efforts.

Don and Gerri raised their family in Lower Burrell, Pennsylvania, where Don coached Little League baseball and enjoyed a wonderful circle of friends. Fond memories of their card club gatherings, warm friendships, and good times shared with neighbors along Hastings Avenue remained a cherished part of those years. In 1989, Don and Gerri moved to Orlando, Florida, beginning a new chapter filled with opportunities and friendships. Don especially enjoyed his retirement years in Orlando’s Orange Tree community, where he developed lasting relationships and treasured the camaraderie of his neighbors. His Catholic faith remained an important part of his life, and he was an active member of Holy Family Catholic Church.

Don found his greatest happiness in the moments shared with those he loved, whether gathering at home, traveling on extended family vacations, attending his grandchildren's musical performances and sporting events, or celebrating holidays together. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he approached life with warmth, humility, and a generous

spirit. He had a genuine appreciation for the people around him and the simple pleasures that made life meaningful.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Helen Nowicki (née Kostewicz).

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Geraldine Nowicki (née Rzeczkowski); his children, Kevin Nowicki and Amy Collier (Scott) of Windermere, Florida; and his treasured grandchildren, Wesley Collier (Dalia), Chase Nowicki, Erin Collier, Katelin Collier, and Riley Nowicki, each of whom brought him tremendous happiness and pride.

He is also survived by his dear brother, Leonard R. Nowicki (Jill), and dear sister, Adele Lamparski (Don), along with many loving nieces and nephews.

Above all, Donald's proudest accomplishment was the family he and Gerri built together. Their 65 years of marriage were a testament to enduring love and devotion, creating a legacy that will live on through the generations. He will be remembered for the values he instilled, the traditions he helped create, and the countless memories shared with those closest to him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew and loved him.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at AdventHealth Hospice for the kindness, dignity, and compassionate care they provided Donald in his final days.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Funeral Mass at Holy Family Catholic Church in Orlando, with an opportunity to visit with the family. The date and time will be announced.

Interment will take place privately at Florida National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Don's memory to AdventHealth Hospice Care or AdventHealth's Neuroscience Institute / Brain Health Outreach Programs.