Donald Shade Jr.

ATTLEBORO – Donald C. Shade Jr., 66, of Attleboro, formerly a longtime resident of North Attleboro, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, Rhode Island, following a courageous four-year battle with cancer.

Born on May 1, 1960, Donald was the son of the late Judith (Mosher) Rockett and stepson of the late Edward Rockett. He was raised in the area and was a graduate of King Philip Regional High School. Throughout his life, he resided in North Attleboro, Rehoboth, Wrentham, and Norwood before making his home in Attleboro.

Affectionately known as “Donnie” to his friends and “Punk” to his family, he was a kindhearted, outgoing man with a quick wit and a wonderful sense of humor. Never one to pass up an opportunity for a sarcastic remark or a good laugh, Donnie had a special way of making those around him smile. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and was known for his generosity, resourcefulness, and ability to make friends wherever he went.

Donnie was a longtime employee of Handy & Harman, where he worked in wastewater treatment and maintenance. A hardworking and talented individual, he took pride in his ability to fix, build, or figure out just about anything. He also devoted countless hours to North Attleboro VFW Post 443, where he performed a variety of jobs and was recognized as an honorary member.

A true man of nature, Donnie found his greatest happiness in the outdoors. He enjoyed camping, hiking, bicycling, fishing, and gardening. He especially treasured time spent along the Cape Cod Canal, where he could enjoy the beauty and peacefulness of his surroundings.

Donnie also had a special affection for wildlife and took great pleasure in feeding the birds and animals that visited his yard. Among his familiar visitors were Mudchin the squirrel, Chippy the chipmunk, and Rocky the raccoon, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Always curious and eager to learn, Donnie loved keeping both his hands and mind busy. Whether building computers, researching a new subject, creating graphs, or tackling another project, he approached everything with determination and enthusiasm. He was the kind of man who could build a lean-to and start a campfire in the pouring rain. His ingenuity, independence, and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures were qualities that made him truly one of a kind.

Above all, Donnie cherished his family and the memories they shared. He leaves behind his longtime loving companion, Lori (Jackson) Antosca of Attleboro; his daughter, Melissa Shade of Mendon; his son, Matthew Shade of Attleboro; and his beloved grandson, Connor Thurman of Mendon. He is also survived by his stepson, G. Alex Antosca of Attleboro; his stepdaughter, Alicia Antosca of Attleboro; and his step grandson, Rayleigh Dalomba of Attleboro. He leaves his brother, David Shade of Hudson; and his sisters, Pamela Martin and Kim Donovan, the latter of Carver; along with extended family members and many dear friends.

Donnie will be remembered for his humor, kindness, generous spirit, and remarkable ability to find joy in the simplest things. Whether gathered around a campfire, enjoying his favorite classic rock music, working on a project, or sharing stories and laughter with those he loved, he lived life in his own unique way. His memory will continue to bring smiles to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A Celebration of Donnie’s Life will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Duffy-Poule Funeral and Cremation Services, 20 Peck Street, Attleboro immediately followed by a funeral home service at 6:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Donnie’s memory may be made to HopeHealth Hospice & Palliative Care, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904, or to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 .

May the campfires always burn bright, the music always play, and the memories of Donnie continue to bring warmth and laughter to the hearts of those who loved him.