Donald E. Liljedahl

Donald Eric Liljedahl, 83, of Plainville, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 24, 2019 at the Hospital of Central Connecticut, New Britain.  He was the husband of the late Marie (Drouin) Liljedahl. 

Born in Hartford on March 15, 1936, he was the son of the late Eric R. and Edme (Anderson) Liljedahl.   Don proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, 3rd Armored Div. in Germany, receiving an honorable discharge in 1958. He and Marie shared 51 years of marriage, settling in Plainville where they raised their family. A skilled woodworker and metal fabricator, Donald was a longtime pattern maker and member of the Pattern Makers League of North America. He eventually co-owned West Hartford Pattern Works where he began as an apprentice. A man of many interests and talents, he belonged to the Plainville Senior Center and the Southington Calendar House where he attended art and poetry classes, and belonged to the photography group.  He travelled extensively alongside his companion and best friend, Doris Rudnicki, from whom he was inseparable since they first met.   Don was an accomplished member of the Boy Scouts of America, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. He found much joy in being a ScoutMaster for Troop 425 in Bristol for more than ten years. Donald loved the outdoors and the beauty of nature as a camping, hiking, fishing, and photography enthusiast.  Remembered for his kindness, love of the arts and sense of humor, he will be missed by his family and many friends.

In addition to Doris, he leaves his son and daughter-in-law, Stephen and Sonja Liljedahl; his daughter, Karen Liljedahl-Perry and her husband, Joe; eight grandchildren, and eleven nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his sister, Joan Darrach.

In lieu of flowers, Donald may be remembered with contributions to the Plainville Senior Center, 200 East St., Plainville, CT 06062.

Family and friends may gather in celebration of Don’s life on Thursday, January 2, 2020, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  Committal services with military honors will follow at West Cemetery. 

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