It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a well-lived life that we announce the passing of Donald Colson Vautrinot I, who left us unexpectedly while at home on February 18, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born on October 4, 1946, in Quincy, Massachusetts, Don was a beacon of strength and kindness, whose legacy of service and love will forever be cherished by those who knew him. Don was the beloved son of the late Alan and Alice Vautrinot. He was predeceased by his parents, his cherished son, Donald Colson Vautrinot II, and his daughter, Kimberly Mae Vautrinot. He leaves behind his devoted brother, Alan Vautrinot Jr. of Plympton, MA, his daughters, Leanne Grace of Hyannis, MA, Karen M. Frazel of Simpsonville, SC, and Samantha Prentice of Wareham, MA. He also leaves a legacy of love and laughter in the hearts of his many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, sons and daughters-in-law.

As a teenager, Don worked the fields at Kierstead Farms in Plympton and as a fire truck mechanic at Maxim motors in Middleboro. He was a champion horseback rider at Wrangler Field in Plympton, winning many first-place awards in barrel racing with his beloved horse Duke. Don attended many shows with Duke including Roughriders, Brockton Faire, Sam and Betty Moore horse shows. With all these shows, Don and Duke were awarded with over 500 ribbons.

A proud graduate of Silver Lake High School in Kingston, MA, he was Awarded Outstanding Mechanic. Later it was true that Donald literally could fix anything. Don went on to serve his country with distinction, completing two tours in Vietnam during the late 1960s. His bravery and valor were recognized with the awarding of a Purple Heart, a testament to his courage and commitment. Don dedicated his professional life to protecting and serving his community.

He began his career as a police officer, serving for one year in Plympton, MA, before dedicating over 25 years to the Carver Police Department. In addition, he served with the Plympton Fire Department for an impressive 53 years, achieving the rank of Deputy Chief and at times, Acting Chief. Even after retirement, Don's passion for service continued as he worked as a consultant for the Plympton Fire Department for an additional five years. In his personal life, Don was known for his quick wit, warm smile, and contagious laugh. He was a man who embodied the spirit of generosity, always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether cutting up a tree that blocked a neighbor's driveway or helping dig a new well, Don's selflessness knew no bounds.

One of Don's proudest accomplishments was purchasing a piece of land after his service in the army and building a log cabin from the trees on that land. This cabin became a symbol of his hard work, determination, and love for nature.

Don's memory will be honored at a service on March 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Shepherd Funeral Homes, located at 216 Main Street, Kingston, MA 02364. Family, friends, and community members are invited to gather in celebration of a life that touched so many. As we say goodbye to Don, we hold dear the warmth, laughter, and love he shared with us all. His legacy of service and kindness will continue to inspire and guide us. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Don's memory to a veterans' charity of your choice, continuing his legacy of service and support for those in need. Rest in peace, Don. Your light will forever shine in our hearts.

Visiting hours from 1-3 followed by a memorial service at 3pm  where everyone is welcome to share memories about Don’s life.

Shepherd Funeral Homes 216 Main Street,  Kingston, MA 02364