Lt. Donald W Bailer, Jr. USN(ret)

LT Donald W. Bailer, Jr. USN (ret) passed away peacefully, Friday March 11, 2016, surrounded by the family he loved.  He was 88 years of age. Donald was born in Wilkes-Barre, PA one of three children of Donald W. Bailer, Sr and Audrey (Hughes) Bailer.  He graduated from Wilkes-Barre High School, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II.  His service to his country in the Navy would span the next 22 years, in such locations as Newport RI, San Diego California, South Bend Indiana, Norfolk and Virginia Beach and Maryland before rising through the enlisted ranks to Chief Petty Officer. He attended Officer Candidate school and was commissioned as an Officer, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant in 1967 off the USS America. Donald then moved to Old Orchard Beach, Maine, where he began a Navy Jr. ROTC program at the High School and he served as an instructor for four years.  Donald trained as a surgical technician and worked for Maine Medical Center.  He became an instructor at the hospital and concurrently completed his Bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Southern Maine.   He has lived in Old Orchard Beach ever since. Donald is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years Rose P. (Salvati) Bailer; his three children,  David Bailer and his wife Patricia and Steven Bailer,  Paul Bailer and his wife Linda all of Scarborough;  a son in law Dan Laflin of Hallowell. Maine;  a sister, Jessie Fishpaw in Idaho;  seven grandchildren he found so much joy in including Allison, Megan, Jake, Ryan, Kelsey, Grace, Emily, and Jillian; two great grandchildren, Jordan and Trey;  neices, nephews, extended family members and friends.   His daughter, Debra Laflin passed away in 2013, daughter in law, Sandy in 2010 and brothers, Edward and Wilson “Bill” all pre deceased him.   Donald enjoyed cross country skiing, hiking and all things outdoors.  He especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren participating in sports and other activities. He was a true family man who thought that family was his life and found great joy being with them.  Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family during calling hours, Sunday March 13th from 12 noon to 2pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME, 370 Plantation St.  A prayer service will follow.  Burial will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Veterans Inc., 69 Grove Street, Worcester 01608.