Former East Whiteland Fire Chief Passes At 87

MALVERN, PA – Donald Jay Fonda, former East Whiteland Fire Company Chief, has died. Fonda was 87 years old.

Fonda died on May 19 while living in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

He was the loving husband of the late Elizabeth "Betty" Jane (Washburn) Fonda, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage.

Born in Brooklyn, NY February 24, 1930, he was the son of Jay Charles and Adeline Grace (Ebel) Fonda.

Mr. Fonda attended Newtown High School in Jackson Heights, NY and Temple University.

He served in the US Army during the Korean War and was discharged as a Sergeant First Class. During his seven years of service he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Medal and the National Defense Medal.

He and “Betty” were married at Valley Forge Chapel in 1954. He worked for Crucible Steel for 33 years until his retirement in 1985.

Mr. Fonda was an active member of the community, serving as a Trustee of the Paoli Presbyterian Church and as Chief at East Whiteland Volunteer Fire Company. He was also involved in the Boy Scouts as well as being a coach to his sons’ many sporting teams.

He is survived by his three sons, Donald J. Fonda (Debby) of Myrtle Beach, SC; Dwight D. Fonda (Maureen) of Downingtown, PA; and Scott W. Fonda (Claudia) of Exton, PA. He is also survived by his brother, Bruce G. Fonda of Radcliff, KY; as well as his five grandchildren.

There will be a private burial with military honors at West Laurel Hill Cemetery on Saturday, June 3rd.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to a charity of your choice.

Obituary courtesy of McMillan-Small Funeral Home & Crematory

Image via East Whiteland Fire Company