Donald J. Bentley, 76, of Derry, NH died Wednesday May 15, 2024 at the Portsmouth Regional Hospital, Portsmouth, NH. Don was born in Derry on April 16, 1948, a son of the late Donald and Katherine (Pivovar) Bentley. He had resided Derry for many years, however, he lived in Key West, FL for about 20 years.
Don was raised in Derry on the family farm on English Range Road. He was a graduate of Pinkerton Academy Class of 1966. Shortly after graduating, Don was drafted into the US Army and shipped off to Vietnam. After returning from the war, where he proudly served his country, Don pursued a career in carpentry. He was a licensed builder in Boston and a foreman for C.B. Construction in Brookline, MA. He later would move to Key West, FL where he started his own construction company. After about 20 years in Florida, Don wanted to return to New Hampshire to be closer to family and friends. He lived on the farm where he grew up and took a job at Hidden Valley Golf Course in Derry as a groundskeeper and maintenance man during his retirement years. Don would work every day and often be the first one on the job. Don loved life and traveling, and visiting with his many friends of all walks of life. He was truly one of a kind.
He is survived three nephews, Douglas Ball and his wife Donna of Londonderry, NH, Daniel Ball of Derry, and Darren Ball and his companion Donna Mustone of Windham, NH, one niece, Linda Ball of Derry, six great-nephews, Jason Ball of Derry, Nathan Ball and his wife April of Milton, FL, Colby Ball and his wife Tabitha of Derry, Colin Ball of Derry, Cameron Ball of Derry, and Landon Gallant of Derry, as well as several great great-nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Marilyn and Donald Ball, and by his nephew, Dana Ball. He also had many wonderful friends up and down the East Coast from Maine to Key West.
There are no calling hours. Following cremation, a celebration of Don’s life will be held at a later date. The Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium of Derry and Londonderry is assisting the family.