Donciu Stan

Donciu, or "Don" as he liked to be called, was born to working class parents in Boldesti, an oil town in Romania. His parents had a strong desire for Don and his sister Constanza to obtain the highest education possible. After high school, he entered the School of Medicine in Cluj, a large city in Transylvania. He chose Family Medicine and practiced near his hometown. He served a large rural population and was very well liked by his patients for his willingness to see them where they needed to be seen; in the clinic, in their homes, or even in the fields where they worked. He knew each one of them well and their medical problems.

The local health department was corrupt and often sought bribes from practitioners. Since his daughter Anca was a medical student, he became concerned about her future practice of medicine in such a system. In 1981 he decided that he needed to leave the country. He was able to secure exit visas for the whole family for a "vacation" to Austria where they were able to find refuge. Shortly thereafter, the whole family immigrated to the United States where they were granted political asylum.

At 53 years of age, Don had to make a career change as he was unable to practice medicine in the U.S. due to differences in education systems. He did not let this stop him from continuing his passion of taking care of people. He learned English, took the nursing boards and worked as a nurse at Loma Linda University Hospital in California until his retirement in 1995. Although he was no longer able to practice as a physician, he was able to see his daughter complete her medical school degree at Loma Linda University.

After retirement he moved to Dayton Ohio to be with his daughter who was practicing as an Internal Medicine physician. He settled into the full-time job of "Grandpa," always seeking opportunities to spoil his two grandchildren. He watched them grow freely and be able to pursue their dreams. He always loved to visit lakes and rivers to swim or fish. Lake Cowan, Lake Erie, and Shawnee State Park were his favorite destinations.
He is mourned by Ruxandra his wife of 64 years, Anca Romelia Udrea his daughter, Petre Udrea son-in-law, Denisa Despina Jacobs granddaughter, Daniel Sebastian Udrea grandson, Lee Jacobs grandson-in-law, Ophelia Jacobs and Zoe Jacobs, great granddaughters.

His friends and neighbors will miss his smile, friendliness, and pleasant disposition. He was strong in faith and now is waiting for the eternal reward that the Lord will give to those who are eagerly waiting for His return.

Farewell our beloved friend!

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Don's memory to Good Neighbour house: https://goodneighborhouse.kindful.com/