Donald Green Morse, age 83 of Mantua, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 8, 2014, surrounded by his family. Don was a devoted husband to Margaret Theresa (nee Kennedy), and loving father to Robert and wife Patricia of Pittsgrove, Michael Morse and Mary Elton of Woodbury Heights, Patricia McCreery and husband Thomas of Alloway Township, Jacquelyn Milchanoski and husband John of Sewell, and Donald and wife Jaclynn of Pilesgrove. Don loved spending time with his grandchildren Matthew, Meghan and Jeffrey Morse; Christine and Joseph Morse; Shannon and James Elton; Melissa, Kimberly and John Milchanoski; and Patrick Morse. Don was predeceased by his siblings, Raymond Morse, Norma Peters, Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Paget, and Joseph A. Morse.

Born in Pontiac, MI, Don moved to Mantua in 1943. He graduated from Pitman H.S. Class of 1949. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War aboard the USS Oriskany (CVA-34) as Catapult Crew Leader. Don was awarded the China Service, Korean Service, United Nations, & Good Conduct Ribbons. He was also awarded a Captain's Letter of Commendation.

Don worked at NJ Bell Telephone and retired after 32 years. He was a man devoted to his faith serving in the Knights of Columbus with Incarnation Council #6364, and was Past Grand Knight of Msgr. McCorriston Council #1994. He was on the first Parish Council, Past President of the Holy Name Society, and weekly usher at Incarnation Church, Mantua.

Don served the citizens of Mantua Township for many years in various capacities including Township Committeeman, Director of Public Safety, Deputy Mayor, and Mayor. He was a member of the Mantua Township Democrat Club, life-time member of the Mantua V.F.W. Post 7679, Past Chairman of the Zoning and Planning Boards, and was Past President of the Mantua Lions Club. He founded Mantua Day and was instrumental in forming the first Mantua Township Historical Committee.

Don was an avid golfer and boater. He and his wife enjoyed many years boating on the Chesapeake with his family and friends, and served as Past Commodore of the Outcast Yacht Club.

Relatives and friends may visit with the family 6 to 8:30 PM Thursday, February 13 and 8:30 to 9:30 AM Friday, February 14 at Smith Funeral Home, 47 Main St., Mantua, NJ. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Church of the Incarnation, 240 Main Street, Mantua at 10 AM. Interment with military honors will take place at Gloucester County Veterans Cemetery, Monroe Township, NJ. Donations in Donald’s name may be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association, 3 Eves Drive, Marlton, NJ 08053.