Podgurski, Donald A.

Donald A. “Stitch” Podgurski, a lifelong resident of Canton and former Canton selectman, died peacefully in his home December 22, 2017. He was 87 years old.

Donald was a proud veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy “Seabees,” and was the former owner of his family business, Podgurski Company in Canton for many years. He had a lifelong affinity for the Boston Red Sox and enjoyed spending time in Winter Haven, Florida. He worked as a firefighter for the Canton Fire Department and his career with the CFD spanned parts of five decades and nearly 40 years. He was a tireless advocate for Canton’s Fire Department and was instrumental in supporting the replacement of antiquated fire apparatus during his time on the Capital Planning Committee. He was a frequent visitor to the department right up until his passing.

Donald was the former superintendent of public works in Norwood and the former acting superintendent of public works in Canton. After retirement he later worked for Norfolk Power Equipment. He was a member of the Massachusetts Elks Association, the Canton Town Club, the American Legion, and the Massachusetts Highway Association.

He was very active for many years in the Elks and served as a past state president, district deputy, Grand Exalted Ruler, and served on the Grand Lodge Credentials Committee. He was active in the Massachusetts Elks Veteran Service Committee where he served as treasurer for over 50 years. Donald was recognized for his dedication and was awarded the Massachusetts Elk of the Year.

Donald was the son of the late Augustine “Gus” and Ruth Podgurski. Devoted husband of the late Helen A. Podgurski (Satkiewicz). Loving father of Denise A. Podgurski of Canton. Brother of Paul R. Podgurski, CPD retired, and his wife, Linda, of Canton, James G. Podgurski, CFD retired, and his wife, Mary, of Canton, Ruth E. Yans and her husband, Javad, of Des Moines, Iowa, and the late Robert F. Podgurski. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

A mass of Christian burial was celebrated Saturday in St. John the Evangelist Church in Canton. Interment St. Mary’s Cemetery. Donations in Donald’s memory may be made to the Canton EMT Association, 99 Revere St., Canton, MA 02021.

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Posted by Canton Citizen on Dec 30 2017. Filed under Obituaries. Both comments and pings are currently closed.