Passed away peacefully on August 7, 2026 in Mildura, aged 86 years.
Loving husband to Anna (dec). Loving father and father-in-law to Donata and Stefano, Maria and Mario, Rohan and Melissa. Adoring grandfather to Kurtis, Domenico, Claudia, Massimo, Luca, Dante, Georgia, Charlotte and their partners. Adoring great-grandfather to Layla, Amelia and Maia.
Life is changed, not ended.
Family and friends are respectfully informed that a Requiem Mass will be conducted at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Mildura on Saturday August 15, 2026, at 10.00am.
In keeping with Don’s wishes a private family interment will follow.
Rosary will be recited at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Eleventh Street, Mildura Friday evening August 14, 2026 at 7.00pm.
In lieu of flowers donations are welcome to Princes Courts Homes: https://princescourt.com.au/support/
Tributes
Narelle Pearson
Sincere condolences to all extended family. We feel like we grew old with Don every year holidaying at his beautiful hotel. He will be definitely missed
Darryl Washington
With much sadness ,my condolences to all Dons family and we will miss our long time friend smile and charm, but remember the innkeeper/ thirst camel trips and great times we shared
Kim Muir (Abell)
Dear Donna, Maria and family,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your beautiful dad. Our families have known each other for so many years, your dad was such a wonderful and caring man.
I will always be grateful for the kindness and care he showed my dad before he passed. It meant so much to our family and was something I truly appreciated.
Sending my heartfelt condolences and love to you all during this very sad and difficult time. May the wonderful memories you have of your dad bring you comfort in the days ahead.
With deepest sympathy,
Kim
Julie Jewell
Don’s contribution to Mildura also extended well beyond his own ventures.
He was a passionate advocate for tourism and understood the important role it could play in creating employment, attracting investment and delivering economic benefits to the wider region.
He encouraged new ideas and developments, supported those working within the tourism and hospitality industry, and was always prepared to champion opportunities that could strengthen Mildura as a destination.
For decades, he represented Mildura with pride, helping to promote the region and its potential to visitors, investors and the broader tourism industry.
His belief in what Mildura could achieve helped encourage others to think bigger, invest with confidence and continue developing the city as a destination of significance.
Rest in Peace Don.
Condolences to Donata, Maria and your families. xx
Maria (Geppina) Romanella - Phieler
Our very deepest heart felt condolences to all of you, Domenico’s family . Hearing of his passing has truly shocked us. We go back a long way… Our parents were friends in the old country. Always so hospitable and welcoming when we came to Mildura from Melbourne. The last time we physically met was 3 yrs ago in our beautiful native Village Montemurro which
has always been in our heart. It was after that encounter when we retuned to Australia , Dom send me his book "My Story… Living in Opportunity " which has been read and enjoyed by all in my family with pride in having a connection with such a great Montemurrese/ and great Aussie with such an amazing story.
Arrivderci caro Don ….
Riposa in Pace
Geppina on behalf of the Romanella plus family