Donald P. Viera of Fairhaven died Sunday, Sept. 17 at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford after a short illness. He was 81.

He was the beloved husband of Shirley (Tilton) Viera, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage.

Born in Oak Bluffs, a son of the late John Sr. and Laura (Peters) Viera, he lived most of his life in southeastern Massachusetts. He was a communicant of St. Joseph’s Church in Fairhaven.

Don attended Fairhaven High School and later served in the United States Army. He worked as a metal worker for 22 years at Rodney Metals. He was a member of the Freetown VFW Post 6643. He was also an avid golfer, gambler, bowler, and woodworker. Many around Fairhaven would recognize the wooden wishing wells that he made from scratch.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, Donald Viera Jr. of Fairhaven; two daughters, Jeanne Raphael and Lori Provost, both of New Bedford; a daughter in law, Tracie Smith of Fairhaven; a brother, Robert Viera of Fairhaven; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Laura Mello, John Viera Jr., Gladys Davis, and Rose Simonsis.

His funeral will be held Wednesday, Sept. 20 at 9 a.m. at the Waring-Sullivan Home at Fairlawn, 180 Washington street in Fairhaven, followed by a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 74 Spring street in Fairhaven. Interment will follow at Massachusetts National Cemetery.

For online tribute or directions visit waring-sullivan.com.