Obituary of Donald W. Gross

Donald W. Gross passed away peacefully on March 27, 2018, surrounded by his loving family. Donald and his wife Marie moved to Manhasset in 1957. They raised their four children here, Donald, Jr. (Arlene), J. Robert (Mary), Cathleen Gross Trombino (Anthony) and Maria Gross Liedlich (Brian), all of whom attended St. Mary’s.

Don spent the last 23 years of his business career with Genovese Drug Stores, until his retirement in 1997. While there, he served in a number of executive positions and was active in the National Association of Chain Drug Stores, including chairing their annual marketing conference. Prior to joining Genovese Drugs, he spent over 25 years in the textile industry in various executive-marketing positions.

Gross was a graduate of Regis High School in New York City. After serving in the United States Navy, he attended and graduated from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA. He was active in alumni affairs over many years for both institutions, including six years of service as a member of the Regis High School Board of Trustees. He also attended St. John’s Law School.

Don was involved in a number of both national and area not-for-profit institutions. He served for 22 years on the Board of Boys Hope/Girls Hope, the last four as chairman. He was a past board member of Abilities, Inc. of Albertson, NY and the Long Island Coalition for Fair Broadcasting. He and Marie were also very active in the Marriage Encounter movement, where they served for a time on the National Board.

Locally, Don served on advisory committees for the Manhasset Board of Education. Don and Marie were very involved in their home parish of St. Mary’s. They served as Eucharistic ministers, headed the Pre-Cana Program for engaged couples for a number of years, and served as the core committee chair couple for the very successful Renew 2000 program. Don also served in a leadership role for St. Mary’s building campaign.

On June 20, 1953 Don was united in marriage to Marie Genovese; they celebrated 51 years of marriage until her passing on October 16, 2004. Don will be deeply missed by his children and their spouses, 13 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and many dear friends.

Visitation from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm and from 7:00 until 9:00 pm on Saturday, March 31, 2018 at Fairchild Funeral Chapel, 1570 Northern Blvd., Manhasset. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 am Monday, April 2, 2018 at St. Mary Catholic Church, 1300 Northern Blvd. in Manhasset. Interment at Locust Valley (NY) Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to CurePSP.org or masses are requested. Information and condolences can be given at Fairchild Funeral Chapel at 516-627-2000