Donald Emil Niosi, 82, passed away on March 4, 2026, in Punta Gorda, FL. Born on July 16, 1943, in Rockville Centre, NY, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose life was marked by devotion to his family. Donald proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Following his military service, he pursued a career in drafting and design. Donald worked with various companies, notably contributing to the design of John Deere mowers for golf courses, landscape equipment and tractors. He earned his name on multiple patents. He spent most of his career at RFA Engineering in Minneapolis, MN.

Donald loved life on the water. He lived many years in Prior Lake, MN, where he enjoyed boating and waterskiing in the summer and snowmobiling in the winter. He cherished his time at their cabin on the Mississippi River in Iowa, which eventually became their home. He loved his collector cars and was a member of the River Park Cruisers in Guttenberg, IA. He soon ventured south for the salt water life and built a home in Florida, joining the Peace River Car Club and working at auctions. He also enjoyed taking his boat out to the Gulf. If he wasn't working on his collector vehicles, bicycling, or out on the water, he was touring the countryside on his Harley Davidson. 

Donald is survived by his loving spouse, Jeanne Niosi; his children, Karen Brantley of Cape Coral, FL, and Kurt (Carolyn) Niosi of Prior Lake, MN; and his cherished grandchildren, Logan (Kalley), Dustin, Anthony, and Maddie, who brought him immense joy. Donald will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the love he shared with those around him. 

A private graveside service with military honors will be held at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery.