Donald Start, 53, of Front Royal, Virginia, formerly of Woodbury, passed away unexpectedly on September 5, 2021.  He was born May 20, 1968, in Waterbury, the son of Ellen (Mansfield) Smith and the late Robert "Ted" Start; he was predeceased by his stepfather, Frank H. Smith, Jr. whom he called Dad.

He was educated in the Woodbury school system, with graduation from Nonnewaug High School, followed by service in the Marine Corps.  Donald was an active member in both the Woodbury and Wolcott Volunteer Fire Departments prior to relocating to Virginia.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, country music, and was an avid football fan, cheering for the New York Giants at every opportunity.

Left to cherish his memory are his mother Ellen of Prospect, his fiancé Melanie of Front Royal, his children Thomas Start of Virginia, Jessica Start of Florida, and his grandchildren Colson and Oakley of Florida, his twin sister Donna Start of Prospect, brothers Robert A. Start (Carolyn) of Woodbury, Christopher Start (Holly) of Woodbury, David Start (Patty) of Meriden, and Robert C. Start (Chaisty) of Waterbury and sisters Sherri Start of Coventry, Alma Ganezer (Sam) of Prospect, Susan Randolph of Tennessee, and Dawn Armbruster (Carl) of Terryville.  Donald leaves behind an extended family of aunts and uncles, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service for Mr. Start is being held on Friday October 8, 2021 at 4:00 pm at the North Congregational Church in Woodbury, CT. Saturday October 9, 2021 10:00am burial will be held at the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown.

In lieu of flowers contributions in remembrance of Donald may be sent to the Woodbury Fire Department, 25 Quassuk Road, Woodbury, CT, 06798, the Wolcott Fire Department, 395 Central Avenue, Wolcott, CT, 06716, or a charity of the donor's choosing.