Dr. W. Donald Plava
Uniontown
Dr. W. Donald Plava, 97, passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in Uniontown.
Dr. Plava was born January 9, 1927, in Gates, to George J. Plava and Anna Fetcho Plava.
He graduated from German Township High School in 1944. He attended Penn State University in 1944 and was drafted into the U.S. Navy in 1945. He served on the USS FDR as a Seaman First Class.
He was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1946 and worked in his family’s business in Gates.
He entered Pennsylvania College of Optometry, where he graduated with a Doctor of Optometry June 11, 1951.
Dr. Plava began his Optometry practice in Uniontown in 1952. He also had a branch office in Point Marion. He loved being an optometrist and living in Uniontown! His patients were like family to him.
Dr. Plava enjoyed baseball, bowling, golf, and tending to his yard and house plants. He was a strong advocate of recycling to keep our country beautiful. His motto was, “Waste not… want not!”
He was preceded in death by his brother, George Plava; and sisters, Eleanor Harris, Louise Lavigne and Frances Hoon.
Left to honor Donald and remember his love and humorous jokes that he so loved to share are his numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A private family graveside service, officiated by Father James Tringhese, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 10, at Sylvan Heights Cemetery, Section BN, Uniontown. JOHN S. MAYKUTH JR. FUNERAL HOME, Masontown, will oversee the service, with military rites accorded by Faith – Gray – McArdle VFW Post 4584 and American Legion Post 423.
The family wishes to thank all the caregivers, wonderful neighbors, and friends who brought so much joy to his life! A very special blessing and thank you to Larry “Jim” Adams, who was the best friend and caregiver that anyone could ever wish for!