Donald E. Vaile

COLUMBIA, Maryland – Donald Eugene Vaile, 93, of Columbia, died Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017, of cancer at Gilchrist Hospice Care in Columbia. He was a retired insurance executive and World War II veteran.

Don was born April 7, 1923, in Dixon, to Joseph Edward Vaile and Matilda (Hermann) Vaile. While attending St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa, Don left college to join the Army Air Corps during World War II. He was a decorated sergeant, serving in campaigns in Italy and France. During his service, Don was awarded two Silver Battle Stars and a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster. After his return, Don completed his undergraduate degree. He married his Dixon High School sweetheart, Kathryn Youngmark Vaile. He obtained his law degree from Loyola University Law School in Chicago. Don began an extended 35-year career with USF&G in Dixon. After a stay in Milwaukee, in 1964, he was promoted and moved to USF&G’s corporate headquarters in Baltimore. He spent the majority of his career managing a team of professionals, excelling in the contractor bonding business, and was known by his colleagues as the go-to expert in the bonding field.

Don was an active member of the Catholic church. His love of God was enduring. He served as a church usher at St. Agnes Parish in Catonsville.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Kathryn. He was the father of seven children, Susan Choidi of Ellicott City, Laura Baldwin, deceased, Amy Ackerman of Mount Washington, Ernie Vaile of Baltimore, Donald Vaile of Milwaukee, Jenny Tyler of Coweta, Oklahoma, and Kathy Rosner, deceased; 20 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Vaile; his sisters, Joan Berei, Rosemary Olson, and Carolyn Kikkawa.

A private memorial service for family will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Agnes Catholic Church, Building Fund, 5422 Old Frederick Road, Baltimore, MD 21229, or visit stagnescatholicchurch.org for donations.