Donald J. DiRusso

Donald “Don” Nazaarano James DiRusso, 83 of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away peacefully with his Bible by his side on November 28, 2025. Don was born on October 8, 1942, in Leominster, Massachusetts. He was the son of Dominic and Mary (Ciuffetti) DiRusso. 

A proud American, he served in the US Air Force as a reconnaissance technician in Japan during the Vietnam War, where he embraced life with an adventurous spirit. Don opened bar rooms near the base, giving fellow GIs a place to gather and unwind. He developed a deep appreciation for Japan and the Japanese culture. He left the service and became a successful entrepreneur of multiple businesses but most noteworthy are Goten of Japan restaurants in Massachusetts, Pool and Spa Gallery and San Juan Pools in Cape Coral, Florida.

He had a passion for sports cars, golf, boating, and enjoyed the freedom of the open road and water. Don loved classic movie and music, especially Elvis Presley and Rod Stewart. He was very proud of his Italian upbringing and heritage, visiting Italy often. 

Don was known for his generosity, strong work ethic, and commitment to helping others. He quietly supported many charitable causes and was a member of McGregor Baptist Church in Fort Myers, Florida. 

Don will be remembered for his commanding presence, loyalty, and unwavering devotion to his faith, family and friends. He was a family man that dedicated his life providing, protecting and supporting his wife and girls. 

He is survived by his high school sweetheart of 48 years, Shirley (Bartlett) DiRusso of Fort Myers, Florida; four daughters, Kristina (Loechelt), Cynthia (Rodrigues), Kayla (Huels) and Candace (Woolley); in addition to thirteen grand children.

A service will be held at Wright-Roy Funeral Home, 109 West Street, Leominster, Massachusetts, on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 12:30pm. Calling hour will be held prior to the service from 11:00am to 12:15am. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Saint Leo’s Cemetery in Leominster. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Don’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN  38105-9959 or to Team Sydney for the “Extreme Hike to End Cystic Fibrosis”

https://fundraise.cff.org/CentralNYXtremehike2026/sydney

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