Donald Rossi was born at Chicago, Ill., on Oct. 3, 1940, the son of Ray and Dora (neé Rante) Rossi. His parents were natives of Raiano, Italy, about 20 miles north of Rome in the Tiber Valley. He was married to Toni (neé Chapados) in the Chapel of the H Donald Rossi graduated from high school at Van Nuys, Calif., where he participated in high-school ROTC. He was cadet battalion commander and received all top honors available to an individual. In 1958, he attended the Citadel in Charleston, S.C., where he was enrolled in courses preparing him for a commission in the United States Marine Corps. Following a year of education at the Citadel, Donald transferred to Northern Arizona University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in psychology and police science. He was graduated from the New Mexico Highlands University with a masters in psychology, and from the University of Sheffield (England) with a PhD in clinical psychology. He completed psychoanalytic training in adult and child psychoanalysis in Michigan, where he was board certified (ABPP) in adult and child psychology. He also had post-doctoral training and numerous certifications. Employment as Psychologist included the following: Internship – Sykesville State Hospital and Sinai Hospital in Maryland University of Michigan – Children’s Psychiatric Hospital Hillsdale College – Child Development and Dow Leadership Center in Stress and Management Michigan State Police – developed and implemented the first state-police behavioral science program in the United States. Private Practice – throughout his career, with a special interest and concern for the problems of veterans United States Army Sergeants Major Academy at Fort Bliss, Texas – taught over a six-year period (various courses on stress and leadership) Adjunct Professor at Michigan State University and University of New Mexico Taught part time at various colleges and universities, including Lansing Community College, New Mexico State University, Eastern New Mexico University and University of New Mexico In December 2007, accepted the job of his dreams and went to Fort Hood, Texas, as psychologist working with PTSD cases Volunteer Work included: Active in the Marine Corps League in Michigan, and he implemented the Marine Cadet Program, which he designed. Active in the New Mexico Mounted Patrol Active in 1st Cavalry United States Volunteers (the “Rough Riders”) Active in the Knights of Columbus in Michigan Frequent retreatant at the Abbey of Gethsemani in Trappist, Ky. Even though he loved living in Carrizozo, N.M., and despite his fight with cancer, Dr. Rossi insisted on following his dream of helping the Army. He was able to fulfill this dream at Fort Hood, Texas, even though he was receiving chemotherapy. His first concern was always “my soldiers.” He loved “my soldiers.” His concept of the Spirit Warrior was a special gift to those he helped. His had a unique thinking style, which led to concepts of treatment which could be understood, not only by professionals, but by the every day soldier and individual as well. Dr. Rossi was a man of honor, a gentleman who loved God, family, the military and his country. His priority was always those who needed his help. His last days in this life were spent in a graciously-provided private home in Killeen, Texas. By the mercy and gift of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, in whom he had been baptized, he died a Christian, at about 10:30 p.m. CDT, Friday, June 20, 2008. Dr. Rossi was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Toni, of Carrizozo; by his daughter Tamara (Michael) Tiefel and two grandchildren, Lily and Zachary, of Alexandria, Va.; and by his twin daughters, Francesca and Victoria, both of Carrizozo; as well as his brother Ray (Enid) of Flagstaff, Ariz. He is also mourned by his soldiers and co-workers, and by a host of friends who knew, loved and admired him. A memorial service was held at Fort Hood, Texas. The family will greet visitors at their home in Carrizozo on Tuesday, July 1, 2008 from 3 – 5:30 p.m. Tags: 1963
Posted in:
Posted on:
Link to original obituary: