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Donald Gregg Stokes, 73, of Topsfield, MA departed this life on Wednesday, March 27, 2025. His principal passion of competitive sailing began from working at Hood Sails in Marblehead and carried on to the highest levels as a prime candidate for the 1980 Olympic USA Sailing Team.
He launched Stokes Boatworks, Inc., a full-service boatyard that built a fine reputation as an expert in custom boat work, constructing, and preparing racing sailboats for worldwide competition. His boats won many races in the Etchells, Lightning, J/24 and J/30 classes, with one of his Echells standing atop the podium at the 1981 World Championship in Marblehead.
He trained in Hawaii and Australia as practice crew for the 1987 America’s Cup, and volunteered in his later sailing years as an instructor at the Courageous Sailing Center in Boston.
Born in Pittsburgh, PA he was the son to the late Delores Jean Gregaitis & Edward Donald Stokes, and beloved husband to Debra A. Stokes.
Don was a husband, father, grandfather and stalwart friend. Don was a proud and loyal navy recruit in the United States Navy. His dedication to his family was evident in every aspect of his life.
Involved early on in Boy Scouts, he proudly achieved Eagle Scout, eventually involving both of his sons in Scouting as Scoutmaster. Don enthusiastically volunteered and coordinated many learning events for his Troop.
Don was an exceptional person with many abilities and interests. He was known for his innovative artwork and would often be found in his workshop creating sculptures utilizing hardwoods from clear-felled trees. His original creations were featured at local Art Exhibitions alongside the work of his father, Ed Stokes.
Don gladly volunteered his wood craftmanship frequently and donated many creations to benefit children. In recent times building and donating sizable Rocking Horses for the 2022 National Adoption Day celebration at Essex Probate and Family Court in Salem, MA.
Don fostered his love of woodworking by forming a specialty construction and historic restoration company, Harrison Taylor Enterprises (HTE). HTE was responsible for the renovation/restoration of many homes throughout New England, with work featured in local builder’s magazines, Fine Woodworking, and being featured on several episodes of “This Old House” as hosted by Bob Vila.
Don was an enthusiastic Motorsports fan, predominantly focused on Formula 1. Don would always set aside Sunday mornings to cheer on his favorite team and driver, Ferrari and Michael Schumacher. Don would most often be seen sporting some form of Scuderia Ferrari gear and made sure to introduce his sons to his Sunday ritual as often as he was able.
Don is survived by his wife, Debra, sons Harrison and Dillon, and grandson Wesley. Two brothers – George B. Stokes and Robert A. Stokes – and his very much loved adopted English Lab, Buddy Blu. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by one brother, Allan.
Funeral services for Don are private. Contributions may be made in Don’s memory to The American Cancer Society, 3 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.
Source: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/donald-stokes-obituary?id=58048852
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