It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donato Napoli a.k.a. “Danny” of St Augustine, FL. He was a loving husband, a devoted father and a cherished grandfather “Papa” who passed away on December 28th, 2024, at the age of 75.
He was born in Calabria, Italy on April 12, 1949. His family migrated to many areas where he knew as home. First, his birthplace, Calabria, Italy, thereafter his family migrated to Argentina where they lived for a time until they traveled the vast Atlantic by ship wherein, they finally settled within the Bronx, New York.
Following his senior year of High School, he enlisted with the U.S. Navy as part of the Naval Construction Battalions-Seabees with the motto “Can Do.” He was proud to be part of the Naval Construction Forces (NCF)/Naval Combat Demolition Units. He served active duty from July 1967 until April 1971. He fought in the Vietnam war and received a National Defense Service Medal. In April of 1971 he went into the reserves until his Honorable Discharge in July 1973.
After serving his country, he worked for a short time as a Doorman on 66th and Park Avenue, New York City. He told stories of meeting Luciano Pavarotti and many other famous singers and actors. Shortly thereafter, he began working for the Department of Sanitation as a Wrecker Operator, obtaining the nickname “Spuds” following a potato truck accident. He retired and eventually fulfilled his dream and moved to Florida.
He loved the outdoors, nature and his dogs. He spent his spare time hunting deer, fishing and was the jack of all trades. He was known for his funny personality, genuine kindness, overwhelming generosity, great cooking and his passion for politics! He made friends with just about anyone he met and made you feel as though you were a part of his family.
He was predeceased by his parents Felice & Rosa Napoli and his brother Antonio Napoli.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Giuseppina Napoli, his oldest daughter Rosemarie Swanson, youngest daughter Elizabeth Jenson and the following grandchildren: Francesca Varner, Amelia Swanson, Sophia Swanson, Samuel Jenson, Emma Jenson and Joseph Jenson.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all family, friends, neighbors and former co-workers for the care and compassion they showed our loved one in his final days.
Memorial Services with Military Honors will be held at 10 AM on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218. Please reach out to his daughters Rosemarie Swanson at [email protected], phone # 916-606-4900 or Elizabeth Jenson at [email protected], phone # 347-249-7783 for additional information.
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