Don Luce, 88, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 17, 2022. Born in East Calais, VT, he was the son of the late Collins and Margaret (Sanders) Luce.

Don was raised in East Calais where he attended local schools. He obtained his Bachelor's degree from the University of Vermont and earned his Master's degree from Cornell University in Agricultural Development.

In 1958, during the Vietnam War, Don traveled to Vietnam and served as an agriculture expert and aid worker for the International Voluntary Services, a precursor for the Peace Corps. During his time in Vietnam, he was widely known as an activist who was a true threat to the South Vietnamese military predominantly for uncovering the mistreatment and torture of many war prisoners. After being expelled from the country in 1971, he continued to battle corruption, poverty and oppression around the World. In the 1980's, he directed humanitarian work throughout Asia, raising awareness and money for HIV.

Following his efforts in Asia, Don relocated to Washington, DC, and served as the Director of International Voluntary Services until 1997. He then taught Sociology at Niagara County Community College for two years, before becoming the Public Relations Director of Community Missions of Niagara Frontier for two decades prior to his retirement.

Don was a proud Author, most notably for his book, Vietnam: The Unheard Voices, which was coauthored by John Sommer and included an introduction written by former Senator Edward Kennedy.

He married his beloved husband, Dr. Mark Bonacci, and together they lived throughout Manhattan, NY, Washington, DC, Buffalo, NY, and currently in Niagara Falls, NY during their 43 years together.

In his free time, Don enjoyed completing crossword and jigsaw puzzles, reading, as well as traveling throughout the United States, Europe and Asia with his husband.

In addition to his husband, Don is survived by his mother-in-law, Nancy (late Edward) Bonacci and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his siblings, Roy, Carlyle and Patricia Luce.

A Celebration of Don's life will be held at the Community Missions of Niagara Frontier, 1570 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY, on Monday, December 26, 2022 at 1:00 P.M. All are welcome to attend. A memorial luncheon will follow the service. Private inurnment will be held at the convenience of the family in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Buffalo, NY. Memorial offerings may be made to the Community Missions of Niagara Frontier at 1570 Buffalo Ave, Niagara Falls, NY 14303. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.