Donald K. Oliver

Beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather
Donald K. Oliver of Jackson NJ formerly of Princess Bay Staten Island passed away peacefully at home Sunday October 8, 2023.  Donald  was born on July 20, 1936 to Joseph & Elsie Oliver in Brooklyn N.Y.  Donald along with his beloved wife of 67 years Barbara and children moved  to Staten Island in the spring of 1966. 

 

 Mr. Oliver served in the U.S. Army  in the  late 1950s.  He then went on to a career as a technician for Smith Corona.  In 1979 Donald and his wife Barbara purchased the Pleasant Plains lunchonette which they owned and operated until 1991.   Don finished out his career as a school bus driver for Atlantic Express and retired to Jackson, New Jersey in 2009.   Don's greatest love was his family.  He coached his sons Little League teams for many years at the South Shore Little League.  Don also passed along his love of horses to his daughter and enjoyed father daughter outings riding.  Donald was extremely knowledgeable in many trades including carpentry, plumbing, masonry, electric and auto mechanics.  He could fix or build anything.  

Don also had a great passion for golf which he enjoyed and played until a year ago.  He loved playing with his sons regularly and often reminded them of his famed 3 holes in one.  Don also enjoyed yearly family vacations to Myrtle Beach spending time golfing with his sons and the beach with family and grandchildren.  He was an avid Rangers and Met fan.  On September 11, 2001 Donald and Barbara experienced the devastating loss of their  youngest son, Edward.  Edward, 31, was a floor broker at the NYMEX Exchange, a young professional who left behind a wife and 2 small children.  

 

Don will leave behind a legacy of love and family values.  He will be remembered for his gentle mannerisms, calming wisdom, and unequalled integrity and honor.   He was an amazing man and loved by many.  

 

Donald is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Barbara.  Two sons, Don Oliver, James Oliver and daughter, Barbara Smith.  He is predeceased by his youngest son, Edward Oliver.  Don also leaves behind 8 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and 3 daughters, in law, Laurie, Charlene and Sheryl Oliver.  

 

In lieu of flowers, contributions to Tunnel to Towers, in Donald's name would be appreciated.