Donald G. Cote

EAST MONTPELIER - Donald Gaston Cote, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home on January 12, 2024, at the age of 89 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 9, 1934, in Rock Island, Quebec, to Lyda Tremblay and Robert Cote. On January 14, 1994, Donald married Barbara Wheeler in Barre Vt. Together they made their home in East Montpelier after purchasing the Delairs Farm and Meat Market in 1976, where they established The Furniture Barn, The Carpet Barn, Bargin Barn, Delairs Auction Sales, Dons Discount, Dons Driving Range, and Dons Affordable Self-Storage. Donald's entrepreneurial spirit and passion for business led him to various successful ventures throughout his life. He started his career by opening a restaurant in Orleans, Vermont, before venturing into the furniture and floor covering business with Dons Depot and Dons Wayside in St. Johnsbury and Newport Vermont. Outside of his professional pursuits, Donald and Barbara enjoyed traveling in their motorhome and were long time members of the Family Motor Coach Association. Donald was also a lifelong member of the Elks and served as President of the Green Mountain Motorcade Chapter. Donald’s true passion was his family. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, creating lasting memories that will be treasured for generations to come. Donald was preceded in death by his daughter, Dawn Cote, his stepson, John Allen, as well as his siblings Rita Lessard and Norman Cote. He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Barbara Cote, his sons: John Cote and his wife Loray, Michael Cote and his wife Anita, and Richard Cote and his wife Laurie. His sisters, Lyse Belknap and Jeannine Cote-Nelson. His memory will forever be cherished by his grandchildren: Ryan Cote, Jonathan Cote, Allison Willard, Joslyn Rowell, Marshall Cote, Trevor Cote, Maranda Cote, Derick Cote, Jason Cote-Wong, Chris Wong, and Kimberly Wong. Additionally, he leaves behind great-grandchildren: Dawson, Jordan, Amelia, Austin, Paxton, Preston, Jack, Sawyer, Quinn, Wesley, Cole, Kayden, Talon, Jayden, Rylie, Matthew, Allison and Lilyana. Donald will be remembered as a loving husband, a dedicated father, a doting grandfather and great-grandfather. His legacy of hard work, entrepreneurship, and family values will continue to inspire all who knew him. Calling hours will take place at Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home on May 31, 2024, from 4-6pm. A graveside service will be held the following day on June 1, 2024, at Hope Cemetery in Barre. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice. Arrangements are in the care of Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St. in Barre. Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at www.pruneaupollifuneralhome.com

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Donald G. Cote

September 9, 1934 - January 12, 2024