Donald Francis Beyer

Donald F. Beyer, 88, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away at his home in Longwood, Florida, on October 31, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family. Born in New York, New York, on November 26, 1936, Don was the son of the late Harold and Dorothy (Kurs) Beyer. Don grew up in Astoria, New York, and graduated from Long Island City High School. Don lived a life dedicated to service. He first served as a police officer for the New York Police Department (NYPD) before joining the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), where he was a firefighter with Ladder 2 in Midtown Manhattan. In total, Don served the City of New York for 20 years. After moving to Florida, Don continued his service as a firefighter with Seminole County at Station 16 from 1979 to 1996. Don maintained close ties with his FDNY and Seminole County colleagues throughout the remainder of his life and considered them extended family. Don also proudly served his country in the Coast Guard Reserves. A man of deep faith, Don attended Catholic Mass every Sunday. He met his future wife, Gloria (Ackalitis) Beyer, at a church dance when she was 16 and he was 18. They married in 1959 and shared 66 wonderful years together, filled with love and countless adventures. Don and Gloria enjoyed traveling the world on cruises, with trips to Russia and Israel among Don’s favorites. Don had a lifelong love for sports, playing softball, basketball, and tennis, and rooting for all Florida and New York teams. As all three of his daughters attended the University of Florida, Don was a devoted fan of the Florida Gators. Notably, and contrary to most New Yorkers, Don was a fan of both the NY Yankees and NY Mets. Don’s greatest joy, however, was his family. He was a devoted family man and served as a role model for his three daughters, teaching them the values of hard work, kindness, and dedication to family. Don is survived by his beloved wife Gloria; his 3 daughters: Terry D’Amico (Ken), Jeanne Beyer, and Nancy Beyer; his grandchildren, Lauren and John D’Amico; and his brother, Robert Beyer (Helen). Family and friends are invited for visitation on November 9, 2025 from 4-7 pm at DeGusipe Funeral Home, 9001 N. Orlando Ave, Maitland, FL. A Funeral Mass will be held on November 10, 2025 at 10 a.m. at Annunciation Catholic Church, 1020 Montgomery Rd, Altamonte Springs, FL followed by interment in Queen of Angels Cemetery, 1901 Queen of Angels Drive, Winter Park, FL.

Donald Francis Beyer

November 26, 1936 - October 31, 2025