Donald Boniface, 72, of Burlington and Jeffersonville, Vt., passed away peacefully on November 22, 2024, at McClure Miller Respite House.
Donald was born in Morristown, N.J., and attended schools there before going on to the University of Virginia, where he majored in landscape architecture and was a member of the Chi Psi fraternity. After graduating, he worked as a computer programmer at Equitable Life Insurance in Manhattan. Later he moved to California, where he worked in ceramic design, expressing his creative passion.
A man of remarkable patience, intelligence and deep empathy, Donald touched the lives of all who knew him. He faced personal challenges with grace and courage, maintaining a sense of humor and a deep connection to nature. His life was one of resilience, rising above trials with a smile and unwavering acceptance.
For 28 years, Donald shared a deep and enduring relationship with his partner, Ted [Kuhar] Boniface. Their bond was a transformative gift to both of their lives. It came at a time when both were seeking love and solace: Donald, mourning the loss of his previous partner, and Ted, adjusting to life in Vermont after a difficult past. Together, they found not only companionship but a love that fulfilled them in ways neither had imagined.
Donald’s creativity shone through in the beautiful landscaping he designed at Junction Hill. He also made lasting contributions to his community, serving on the board of the Champlain Housing Trust and Vermont Cares, where he led the speakers bureau. A passionate advocate for historic preservation, Donald was recognized for his work with the architectural restoration of Park Place Co-op in Burlington.
Donald’s life embodied a rare balance of intellectual depth, emotional sensitivity and creative spirit. He will be remembered not only for his artistic contributions but also for the warmth, care and unconditional love he shared with others. His legacy of compassion and enduring love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Donald’s relationship with Ted was one of deep devotion. As Ted once shared in a “StoryCorps” interview, meeting Donald allowed a love that had long been waiting inside him to blossom. They supported and cherished each other through life’s complexities, building a bond based on mutual respect, honesty and unwavering commitment. As they often said, “The death of one of us will separate us, and nothing else will come between.”
Donald is survived by his devoted partner, Ted; mother, Diana Holmes; sister, Carolyn Fritsch; brothers, Chris and John Boniface; as well as several nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his father, Philip Boniface. His memory and spirit will be forever carried in the hearts of those who loved him.
Donald’s love for nature — especially the fields, streams, mountains and trails of Vermont — was profound. In his memory, donations may be made to McClure Miller Respite House, David’s House Dartmouth or Vermont Land Trust, so that his legacy of love for humanity and nature may continue for generations to come.
A gathering in memory of Donald will be held in his gardens this summer. Arrangements are by A.W. Rich Funeral Home.
In the words of E.E. Cummings, “i carry your heart with me (I carry it in / my heart) i am never without it.”
May Donald’s memory be a blessing, and may his legacy of love, kindness and beauty continue to inspire us all.
This article appears in Dec 11-17, 2024.
Donald Boniface will be missed but not forgotten, knew him for over 35 years. Ted I will think of you in my thoughts. Take care, Dale Flanders