Donald “Otto” Felix, 84, of Stratford, CT quietly passed away on May 28th, 2021 after a long and courageous fight with cancer.
Don (“Otto)” to his close friends) was born on August 24, 1936 Bridgeport, CT to Helen and Otto Felix. As evidenced by the lifelong friendships he held with a close-knit group of fellow East Enders, his upbringing played a central role in shaping his optimistic and selfless outlook on life. Don graduated Harding High School in 1954 then proudly served his country in the United States Army. Don was a consummate professional and worked hard his entire life to provide for his family, starting in Manufacturers Box Company, moving on to EDDCO and finally retiring from Curtis Packaging in 2001.
Every year since 1980 he created a unique and whimsical Christmas ornament for each and every family member and close friends from Stratford to Portland, OR. These are cherished reminders of his creativity and sense of humor, they will have a more meaningful impact in the years to come. An avid Red Sox fan who finally saw them break through “The Curse” in 2004 and go on to win three more championships, much to the chagrin of his Yankees supporting pals. He was something to everyone, a simple greeting, a helpful gesture, a lighthearted joke, these are the small interactions that left a piece of him in everyone he met. Husband, father, grandfather, friend, neighbor – to all these roles Don brought kindness and generosity.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Annette; his children Laura Haley Stratford, CT; Donald (Hiroe) Felix, Portland, OR. Grandchildren are Evan Felix and Cody Haley; several niece and nephews; his childhood friend James Gerwien; and all his friends from church. He was predeceased by his mother Helen (Bailey) Felix, his father Otto Felix and his sister Betty Lou (Felix) Bray.
A special Thank You to the nurses and doctors at the VA Hospital in West Haven for all the love and care they gave Don in his final months; we are eternally grateful.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Don’s name to Veteran’s Hospital CLC T3W, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT 06516. Make checks to: VA Healthcare System on memo line Hospice/T3W – Donald Felix
To offer online condolences please visit www.dennisanddarcy.com
