Published September 20, 2019
WEST NEWBURY — Donald A. Batson, 90, a resident of West Newbury and formerly of Melrose, passed away peacefully in Newburyport on Thursday, September 12, 2019.
Born in Bath, Maine on April 3, 1929, Don was one of three sons of the late Linwood T. and Edna M. (Sprague) Batson. He was raised in Somerville where he graduated from Somerville High School, Class of 1947. Don proudly served in the US Army for two years before receiving an honorable discharge. On June 28, 1952, he married Vera MacPhail in Somerville and they settled in Melrose to raise a family of four children. While raising a family, Don continued his education by taking night classes and successfully earned his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Northeastern University.
With a strong work ethic and humble nature, Don dedicated himself to his working career in Science and Research at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. After working as a Research Scientist at MIT Lincoln Lab, Don then served as the Chemical Safety Officer for the entire MIT campus. He was responsible for evaluating and maintaining all levels of chemical and environmental safety throughout the campus. Always goal oriented, Don took great pride in his work and was well respected by his colleagues.
Don was a longtime active and passionate member of the Masons. He served as a past Master of Wyoming Lodge AF&AM of Melrose, Past High Priest of Waverly Royal Arch Chapter, Past Illustrious Master of the Melrose Council of Royal and Select Masons, member of the Masonic Priory #52, Knights of York Cross of Honour, member of the Aleppo Temple Shrine, six time Past Patron and Grand Representative of the Order of the Eastern Star, and honorary member of the Haverhill Commandery. Most recently, Don was an active member and past Commander of the Metro North Commandery #20.
When not working, or educating himself, Don enjoyed being around his family. He was a loving husband, supportive father, and admired grandfather. He found great joy spending time at the family cottage that he designed and diligently maintained on Thompson Lake. The cottage served as a gathering place for generations of family, and Don delighted in teaching his children and grandchildren about boating, or home repairs. He lovingly shared his knowledge and experience with all and remained forever proud of his children and grandchildren. Don was also affectionately known for his love of dancing, and organizing ski trips for the entire family.
With a strong moral compass and selfless nature, Don set an example for all to follow. He leaves a lasting legacy of humble hard work, kindness to all, and most importantly, love for family. Don will be deeply missed but always lovingly remembered.
Don was the beloved husband of Vera M. (MacPhail) Batson with whom he shared 67 years of marriage. Devoted father of Mark Batson and his wife Sherry of Billerica, Scott Batson and his wife Marina of Danville, Va., Sandra Ross and her husband Robert of Boxford, and David Batson and his wife Susan of Winchester. Dear brother of the late Earl and Carlton Batson. Cherished grandfather of Jennifer Fishbein, MD and her husband Ross, Brendan Ward and his wife Lynn, Steven Ross and his wife Riddhi, Kaleigh Ross, William Batson and his wife Tricia, Robert Batson, and Scott Batson. Great-grandfather of a beautiful granddaughter, Claire Batson. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Don’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Tuesday, Sept. 17 and again on Wednesday for his funeral service. Interment in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody. Gifts in Don’s memory may be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 51 Blossom St., Boston, MA 02114. For online tribute or directions: RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
