Donald “Duck” Edward Rose, aged 93, of Carolina Shores, NC, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. A loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, he will be dearly missed by many and fondly remembered by all.

Donald was born in Roosevelt, NY, on November 25, 1931, to Edward and Angeline Rose. Following high school, Don proudly served in the United States Navy as a Musician 2nd Class until his honorable discharge (1952). After his Navy service, Don continued his life of dedication by working as a court clerk at the Nassau County Supreme Court and serving as Captain of the Roosevelt Fire Department.

Don’s life was devoted to service—both professionally and personally. At his core, he was a musician: a renowned trumpeter who serenaded Long Island every chance he got with his band, The D&J Trio. Many weddings, parties, and community events came alive with the tunes of the band and its handsome trumpet player. Don had music in his soul and loved that his music brought people together.

New York eventually got too cold, and Don retired to Carolina Shores, North Carolina, in 1988. This old sailor had his orders—to enjoy retirement with his beloved wife, Ellen. Retirement suited him well—filled with travel, golf, bowling, woodworking, crossword puzzles, playing the keyboard, and enjoying an ice-cold Yuengling. He remained active in the community and cherished time spent with family and friends. Don especially enjoyed dancing in his later years with his companion Dolores, dinners with “the guys,” and rounds of golf at the Carolina Shores Golf & Country Club. While Don was not one to brag, he would let you know that he sunk multiple hole-in-ones on the course. 

Don took immense pride in his family. He was a devoted father to Gary Rose (Lorrie) and Terry McEntee (John), and a loving grandfather to Colleen Rose (Nick), Ashley Rueda (Rudy), John McEntee (Jillian), and Patrick McEntee (Anna). Life grew even sweeter when he was blessed with time to create cherished memories with his eight great-grandchildren: Ellie, Braydon, Rudy, Rafael, Caroline, Eleanor, Vivian, and Sloane. He will also be fondly remembered by his beloved nieces Susan (Vernon), Patricia (Kevin), and nephew Richard (Betsy).

 Don was predeceased by his wife, Ellen Rose; his son, Gary Rose; his parents, Edward and Angeline Rose; his sister, Marie Funch; and his nephew, James Funch.

A memorial service to honor Don’s life will be held privately at a later date.

How do you sum up a life that spanned nearly a century? You can share the milestones, but the truth is—he would rather we didn’t. Don preferred listening over talking, and he took joy in celebrating everyone else’s stories. So, in his honor, take the time to truly listen, and celebrate your loved ones the way Don did. Put on a record and dance the night away. Share a deep belly laugh with good friends. And if you hear a trumpet in the distance, know that he’s playing it just for you.

 A life well lived, and a rest well earned.