Clermont boasts many colorful people who have lived great lives and deserving of honor from the local community. Certainly, there is none more deserving than Don Tracy who has been a resident of Clermont for over 57 years and a revered Icon of his fellow Lakeshore Drive neighbors.
Don’s ninety-five years have been filled with adventure as a World War II Navy veteran; enviable service to his hometown Minnesota community as a Telephone manager for over 40 years and; service to his Clermont community as the owner of Tracy Real Estate, as a past president of the South Lake Waterways Association, Inc and other local business ventures.
Don’s military record was near heroic with his shooting down of 3+ attacking Japanese aircraft while serving on the Vella Gulf Aircraft Carrier in the Far East. A story he is ready and willing to share with interested friends and neighbors at any time. He also was one of the first military personnel to conduct an on-site inspection of the damage from the Atomic Bomb blast on Nagasaki, Japan near the end of the war.
Don is a great friend and admirer of the South Lake and Minneola Trailhead Bike Parks and can often be seen biking on a daily basis on these beautiful bike paths. His display of healthy vigor at the lofty age of 95 has left many observers thoroughly impressed and a bit envious as well! He is a real inspiration for all who know and love him as the Patriarch of our area.
He donated a small area of his property for the Lakeshore Organic Garden Group to grow organic vegetables and fruits for the group. Don was a regular participant and the neighbors named the small spot “Possum Don’s Farm” in appreciation for his neighborhood contributions.
His family and friends in the Lakeshore Drive area will have a small birthday celebration for Don and his lovely bride Irene of 72 years.
Please join us in hearty Congratulations to Don on this important and rare birthday event.
Cheers and 95 years and many more Don Tracy!!
