Southbridge: Donald R. Pion, 65, of Hamilton St., passed away on Wednesday March 6th, in his home after a brief illness.

His longtime companion, Florence G. LaCroix, passed away in 2020.  He leaves his mother, Doris R. (Labonte) Pion of Plymouth; his three brothers, Raymond Pion and his wife Ann of Plymouth, James Pion and his wife Kelly of Port Richey, FL and Jon Pion of St. Petersburg, FL; two nieces; 3 nephews; several aunts, uncles and cousins.  He was the son of the late Raymond E. Pion, Sr.

Donald was born in Southbridge and worked for 46 years at Schott Fiber Optics in Southbridge, retiring in August 2023.  He enjoyed fishing, spending time with his cats, and doing woodworking projects.  He was also an avid New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox fan.

A funeral service for Donald will be held on Friday, April 5th, at 11:00am  in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge.  Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Southbridge.  A calling hour in the funeral home will be held on Friday, April 5th, from 10:00 to 11:00am, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to your local animal shelter.