Donald Arthur Antonio Toulouse

WATERVILLE – It is with deep love and gratitude for a life well lived that we remember Donald Arthur Antonio Toulouse, a man who brought laughter, warmth, faith, and kindness to everyone he met.

A devout Catholic throughout his life, his faith guided the way he treated others—with kindness, generosity, humor, and compassion. He carried his beliefs quietly but faithfully, finding strength in his family, his work, and the many friendships he cherished over the years.

A born salesman and tireless worker, he built his life with his hands and his heart. Over the years, he sold cars and lumber, worked as a carpenter and home builder, and owned a variety of businesses that reflected both his ambition and creativity. Among them were several clothing stores, a convenience store he built himself—fondly known as “Antonio’s,” where he became just as well known for his pizzas—and a restaurant called “The Mouse Hole,” which brought people together over good food and better company.

His talents were as diverse as his interests. He worked as a butcher, built and raced small boats, and could often be found cutting and splitting wood simply for the love of it. Whether working or relaxing, he poured himself fully into everything he did.

He found great joy in life’s simple pleasures—playing racquetball at the local athletic club, cheering passionately for the Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins, and New England Patriots, and rooting for underdogs in any sport. But nothing brought him more pride than watching his children and grandchildren play. He was their biggest fan, always present with encouragement and a smile.

Family was at the center of his life. He is survived by his loving wife, whose devoted care meant the world to him, especially in his later years. He was a proud father and a cherished grandfather. His children and grandchildren each held a special place in his heart. He delighted in teaching them over the years how to fish, from catching worms with his famous homemade mustard trick to patiently helping them bait their hooks until they were ready to do it themselves. He also found great joy in giving them rides on his lawnmower and sharing stories that brought his past vividly to life.

He was also blessed to have a son-in-law who became a deeply valued member of the family and someone with whom he shared a particularly close bond, especially toward the end of his life.

He often entertained family and friends with tales of his younger days—arm wrestling at local bars, racing his boats, and driving the many Corvettes he loved. His stories, like his personality, were larger than life.

From a young age, he understood the value of hard work, helping at his parents’ convenience store before he was even a teenager and driving trucks by the age of 14. That work ethic stayed with him throughout his life and became a legacy he passed on to his family.

Above all, he will be remembered for his joyful spirit. He was a jolly man, quick with a joke, always ready to make someone smile—whether it was a customer, a friend, or a loved one. Even in his final days, he never lost his sense of humor.

He was blessed with many dear friends and a family who will forever miss the light he brought into every room. His legacy lives on in the laughter he shared, the lessons he taught, the faith he carried, and the love he gave so freely.

Words cannot express how grateful we are to all his caregivers. His private nurses and the nurses, caregivers and staff at Waterville Hospice were so kind and caring, and treated Dad with love and respect.

A funeral service will be held at a later date.

Donations in his memory can be sent to Waterville Area Soup Kitchen (www.watervilleareasoupkitchen.com) or to Waterville Hospice (www.hvwa.org).