Donald Paul Nardini

Donald Paul Nardini, 79, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on August 23, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, Don proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he built a distinguished career in aviation spanning several decades.

Don began his career with CBI, a role that brought his family from Chicago to Coral Gables, Florida. He later joined Embraer, where he became Vice President of Sales and was a pioneer in helping establish the regional aviation market in the United States. His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to found Total Aero, where he specialized in the sales of regional aircraft and business jets. Throughout his career, Don earned the respect of colleagues across the aviation industry through his integrity, knowledge, and dedication.

Above all else, Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Family was the center of his life. He treasured time with those he loved, whether attending sporting events, enjoying a round of golf, relaxing at the beach in earlier years, returning to his hometown of Chicago, or simply spending time with his children and grandchildren. His warm smile, generous heart, and genuine joy in being with family and friends will be remembered by all who knew him.

Don is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Denise Nardini; his sons, Don and his wife Erin, Marc and his wife Aimee, and Phil and his wife Melissa; his sister, Donna Nardini; and his cherished grandchildren, Emma Chapman, Ryan Nardini, Sophia Nardini, and Lucca Nardini.

His legacy of love, faith, hard work, and devotion to family will live on through all who were blessed to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.