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E. Mayotte Obituary

Ernest Donald "Don" Mayotte, 80, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, died April 26, 2012, at his home. He left this life the same way he lived it: on his terms, without regrets, well loved. Don was born in 1931, grew up at The Narrows, Webster, Massachusetts, on the shores of Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg, attended Worcester Academy and, briefly, Brown University. He joined the Air Force on a dare in 1953 and rose to the rank of Lt. Colonel before retiring in 1973. While on active duty, he spent seven months in Vietnam, where he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for assisting in the rescue of two downed pilots. On leaving the service, he earned a history degree from the University of Colorado, graduating cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, in 1975. In retirement, he was actively involved in the Colorado Association of Swimming Officials (CASO), serving both as swimming official and CASO president. He also served as Vice President and Head of Data Processing for Mayotte Accounting, his wife's successful accounting business. A man of eclectic interests, Don's lifelong passions included photography, sailing, skiing, cooking, jazz, U.S. history, ornithology, running, art collecting, travel, and his wife of 55 years. He was preceded in death by his father, Ernest Rosario, and mother, Antoinette Marie (née Dion) Mayotte, of Webster, Massachusetts. He is survived by his wife, Nan; five children, Nanette, Mark, Lisa-Marie, Kate and Linda-Ann; ten grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and brother, Edward Joseph of Brookline, Massachusetts. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 4, at the Carter Payne Event Center, 320 S. Weber, Colorado Springs. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Doctors Without Borders (www.doctorswithoutborders.org).

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette on May 1, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
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Richard Pennington

April 27, 2021

Hello Nan and family, I still think about Don from time to time and how he always bragged about his kids. He was a great guy. Richard Pennington, Dallas

Richard Pennington

April 26, 2020

I knew Don all the way through college in the Springs. He was a great guy and I remained friends, seeing him occasionally for several years after. He always braged about his kids. I am sure they are all great adults now.

Richard Pennington

May 9, 2012

Nan and Family, I went to college with Don and we were close friends along with a couple of other guys. I have great memories of Don and he will be missed by me and the other guys. His passing has inspired me to reconnect with old friends and to stay in touch.

One particular memory is when we were all getting ready to graduate and Don offered to take the four of us up to Breck to your condo for the weekend; it was a great time. Don did the cooking. Sincerely, Richard Pennington

May 4, 2012

So sorry to hear of your Dads passing, we have many good memories of swimming meets. We'll be praying for comfort for your family.

Audrey (Shumate) Smentowski and David Shumate

May 4, 2012

Dear Jack, I so enjoy your spirit in our World Literature class. Now I can see that your wide interests and inquiring mind are genetic in part, from your grandfather who lived an incredible, full life. I wish the same for you. What a legacy he has left. Best wishes to you and your family,
Ms. Symmes, Poudre High School (Fort Collins, CO)

Alumni Association

May 2, 2012

Kate, the CSHS/Palmer Alumni Association conveys it's heartfelt condolences.

Tom Everson

May 1, 2012

Nanette and Mark, know of my prayers for you and your family as you celebrate the gift of your dad's life and all the love he shared with you.

Mike Quintana

May 1, 2012

Nan, May GOD hold and comfort you in his mercy. You are in out thoughts and prayers. Mike Quintana and Family

Barry & Le Ette Farris

May 1, 2012

Kate, so sorry to hear of your loss. You have our prayers and sympathy as you mourn the loss of your Father.
Barry and Le Ette Farris
CSHS/Pallmer Alumni Association

Jay Smith

May 1, 2012

Kate -- Very sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the Lord, family and friends.

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