RUMFORD — Donald Fifield, 87, of Rumford passed away Wednesday, June 20, 2018, at Rumford Hospital.

He was born Sept. 14, 1930, in Stonington, and raised by his grandparents Lillian and Harry Colby. Don started work as a young boy digging clams (25 cents for a quart jar of shucked clams) and packing sardines during high school (Crosby High School, Belfast, Class of 1948).

A U.S. Air Force veteran, he graduated from the University of Maine at Orono with a degree in electrical engineering (Class of 1954), and soon went to work for Hughes Aircraft in California. That led to a 20-year career with COMSAT at the Andover Earth Station. He was a witness to and participated in the birth and growth of satellite communications. He was fascinated with the cosmos and had a meticulous attention to detail.

After retirement, Don had more time to spend winding his way through Maine and New Hampshire on his Honda Gold Wing motorcycle, looking for the best fried clams!

Don leaves behind his wife, Shirley (Bachelder), of 56 years and his daughter, Lisa, and her husband, John Roberts. He is survived by his sister, Pauline Foster, and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his grandparents and his sister, Patricia Clements.

Friends are invited to sign the family guest book and share their thoughts, condolences and fond memories at www.meaderandson.com