"Don has faithfully completed that task day in and day out for six years in rain, wind, snow and 100-degree heat," said Library Director Barbara Hopkins. "That's not surprising when you know his background."
One of five children, Daoust joined the United States Marine Corps over his mother's objections, because he wanted to serve his country during World War II. In 1943, Daoust rescued a wounded major and sergeant during a battle in the South Pacific. During his courageous act, he was shot in his left eye by a sniper. Daoust survived and was forced to wear a glass eye. For his heroism, he received the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.
After he was discharged, Daoust met his wife in Niagara Falls, a Baldwin native named Anne Graven. The couple had two children, and eventually returned to Baldwin in the 1960s, where Daoust worked for the Baldwin Post Office for 30 years until his retirement in 1987.
Daoust was not content with doing nothing, and worked part time at the Baldwin Bowling Center and then the library.
In 2001, Daoust lost his son, Richard, a respected teacher and coach in the Merrick/Bellmore School District. The following year, he lost his sister, on April 17, and then his beloved wife on April 22.
"His courage, fortitude and good humor never wavered even under circumstances that would make most men give up and lose hope," said Hopkins. "He is our hero and a true gentleman."
In June 2004, Daoust will start a new chapter in his life when he moves to Morgan City, Illinois where he will reside near his daughter and other family members. The library staff will hold a farewell party on May 2.
"The library will miss him more than we could say," said Hopkins.
