Donald Gerosa

Don Gerosa, age 86, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026. Born on March 27, 1940, in Peekskill, New York, Don was the son of John and Amelia Gerosa, first‑generation Italian immigrants and devoted small‑business owners. He grew up in Mahopac, New York, where he helped in the family’s restaurant, and participated in various school and athletic activities. These early experiences shaped the discipline, work ethic, and generosity that defined his life.

After graduating from high school, Don moved to Ohio to attend Ohio Wesleyan University, where he studied Economics and played both football and baseball. His senior football season was exceptional: he was named Ohio Conference Lineman of the Year and received the Bun Trophy as the Bishops’ Most Valuable Player. That fall, he caught 34 passes for 743 yards—both school records—and tied the OAC record with nine touchdown receptions. During his senior baseball season, he earned first‑team All‑OAC honors as an outfielder. These accomplishments ultimately led to his nomination to the Ohio Wesleyan Athletic Hall of Fame. Don graduated from Ohio Wesleyan in 1962 with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics.

Following college, Don was recruited to play both professional football and baseball. He chose the NFL; however, after sustaining an injury during training camp with the Minnesota Vikings, he redirected his path toward military service. Don served with honor in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. Coral Sea, where he was an Officer of the Deck during the Vietnam War.

After completing his military service, Don began a distinguished 37‑year career with Parker Hannifin. During this time, he held numerous roles of increasing responsibility, earned his MBA from Western Michigan University, and ultimately became a General Manager. Known for his leadership, integrity, and dedication, Don retired in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and respect.

During his years as a young father, Don continued to be an avid sports fan and was active in coaching his sons’ baseball and football teams. He also developed his well‑known “love/hate” relationship with golf and discovered a passion for horses, a love he shared with his family. In fact, it was on the golf course — or during Cleveland Browns games — where his sons learned some of their most colorful vocabulary. Don spent many weekends showing horses and competing in barrel racing and equitation, and these experiences brought him great joy and created cherished memories for his family.

In retirement, Don embraced the activities he loved most—golf, cycling, traveling, and volunteer work. He was a committed volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and the Savannah public school system, always eager to lend his time and talents to help others.

Despite his many accomplishments, Don’s greatest devotion was to his family and his faith. He was married to the love of his life, Sharolyn Gerosa, for 58 years. Don is survived by Sharolyn and their two sons, Damon (Julie) Gerosa and Garrett (Melanie) Gerosa, as well as five grandchildren who brought him immense joy: Madeline, John, Jude, Giada, and Gianni Gerosa. He is also survived by his sister, Dolores Schmidt, of Huntsville, Alabama.

Don will be remembered as an involved, thoughtful, and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the example he set, and the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed.

A Memorial Mass for Don will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 523 Pablo Avenue, Jacksonville Beach, Florida, 32250. A Committal Service will be held the following morning, Friday, July 24, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, Florida, 32218.

In addition, the family will host a Celebration of Life at Cypress Village at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Don’s memory.