Donald “Donnie” Lail, 4th Division Aviation, passed away November 9, 2018

On Friday, November 9, 2018, Donald “Donnie” Gene Lail, loving husband, father of two and grandfather of five passed away at the age of 69.

Donnie was born on January 27, 1949 in Portsmouth, VA to Clarence D. and Mary Lou Munson Lail. He served in the United States Army and was a helicopter crew chief during the Vietnam War. On October 17, 1973, he married Wendy Lynn Kaplan and together they raised their family in Montgomery County, MD. Donnie was employed as a Systems Manager at USA Today before retiring in 2004. After the passing of his beloved wife in 2005, he reunited with his high school sweetheart, Diane Williams Abernathy, and they were devoted partners for the last 13 years.

Donnie had a passion for fast cars and auto racing. He loved spending time building, repairing, and tinkering with automobiles. He was a kind person known for his love of family, sense of humor and willingness to help others.

Donnie is survived by two sons Kevin (Jennifer) and Dana (Deanna), his sister Karen Sargent (Jim), brother Vernon (Meg), five grandchildren Alex, Charlie, Dreux, Jacob, and Sydney, and his partner Diane.

A Celebration of Life will be held the first weekend December 2, 2018 from 2-5 in the South Gallery Room at Delaware Agriculture Museum. Honor Guard Service beginning at 2:30. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Gary Sinese Foundation.