BARRE-Lt. Donald M. Quinlan, 52, of Barre, died Saturday, March 22nd in the Rose Monahan Hospice Home surrounded by his loving family and friends. He leaves his wife Mary (McManus) Quinlan; his daughter, Amanda Kate Quinlan of Hardwick; two sons, Sean Patrick Quinlan and Matthew J. Dansareau both of Barre; daughters, Molly A. Miller of Hardwick and Timaree A. wife of Michael Sparks of Easton, MD; two sisters, Cheryl Sposato of Milford and Kathleen Quinlan of Shrewsbury; his granddaughter, Emma Kathryn Miller and many nephews and nieces. His son, Michael J. Dansareau and a brother David Quinlan predeceased him.
He was born in Worcester, the son of Donald L. and Pauline (Leonard) Quinlan; and was a graduate of Worcester Boy’s Trade, and attended Worcester State and Quinsigamond College. Lt. Quinlan was appointed to the Worcester Fire Department in October, 1978, promoted to lieutenant on April 1, 1984 and was on active status with the department at the time of his death. Donald was also a master electrician owning and operating D. M Quinlan Electric. He was a member of the International Association of Firefighters, Local 1009, the Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts; the Barre Sportsman’s Club and was president of IOD Charters of Dun Edin, FL. He also served for 6 years as Barre’s fire chief. Donald was an avid sportsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, and was a beekeeper.
The funeral is Thursday, March 27th from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue with a Mass at 11:00 AM in St. Peter’s Church, 929 Main Street. Burial will be in Worcester County Memorial Park. Calling hours are Wednesday, March 26th from 4:00 until 8:00 PM in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lt. Donald M. Quinlan Scholarship Fund, c/o the Worcester Fire Department Credit Union, 34 Glennie Street, Worcester, MA 01605.