Donald Richard McCrary of Orlando, Florida passed away on June 22, 2022 while on a celebration trip with his beloved family in Glacier National Park, MT. He was born in Cortland, New York on August 9, 1946. Don graduated from Groton High School and later received his bachelor’s degree from SUNY – Oswego, NY. He was married to Nancy Sutfin McCrary on August 18, 1967. He was preceded in death by his parents Oliver and Mildred (Cook) McCrary of Groton, NY.
Don began his career as a high school industrial arts teacher in 1968. After a few years he began working as an Optical Engineer at Bausch Lomb. In 1977 he moved his young family to Orlando, Florida. Don then worked as a mechanical engineer at Lockheed Martin for almost 30 years. He spent many years as a senior engineer on the night vision program of the Apache helicopter. Don was named APEX Inventor of the Year in 1997. After he retired in 2006, Don continued sharing his skills, consulting on projects for several companies, including Lockheed Martin and Beam.
Don had a passion for his faith, his family and his country. He enjoyed playing golf, fishing, and staying busy inventing and building things. Don was an accomplished pool player and spent many years competing in American Poolplayer Association events and national 9-ball tournaments held in Las Vegas.
Don is survived by his devoted wife Nancy and their children, David (Patty) McCrary of IL, Laura (Shannon) McCrary-Hansen of CA, Kristin McCrary of FL, and Steve McCrary of FL. He was so proud of his grandchildren, Matthew McCrary, Morgan McCrary and Kat Hansen. He is also survived by his two loving brothers Gregg (Carol) McCrary of VA and Rolla (Pam) McCrary of TX in addition to his nieces, nephews, other relatives and many cherished friends.
Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am July 16, 2022 at West Orange Christian Church 7325 Conroy-Windermere Rd. Orlando, FL 32825.
Followed by a celebration of life after party (toast and roast) for Don at 1:00pm at Taverna Opa 9101 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
Don will be laid to rest under a shady tree next to a flowing stream in the Arbor Estates of Woodlawn Cemetery in Gotha, FL.