Donald H Griffaw

Donald H. Griffaw, 84, of Vermilion, passed away Sunday, April 19, 2026 at Cleveland Clinic Foundation following a lengthy illness.

He was born January 16, 1942 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri and made Vermilion his home in 1962, where he became a respected and deeply committed member of the community.

Don worked for Ford Motor Company at the Lorain plant in maintenance for 37 years, retiring in 1997. While he was dedicated to his career, it was his lifelong devotion to Freemasonry that truly defined much of his life’s work and legacy.

A proud and active member of Mason Ely Lodge #424, Don embodied the principles of brotherhood, charity, and service. He was also a member of Madeleine Chapter #204 O.E.S., supporting its mission alongside his Masonic involvement. Don furthered his Masonic journey through both the York Rite and Scottish Rite bodies, dedicating countless hours to study, ritual, and mentorship.

Recognized for his leadership and integrity, he served the State of Ohio as a District Grand Deputy, a role that reflected the high regard in which he was held by his fellow Masons. Perhaps most meaningful to him was his work as an Education Officer, where he instructed and mentored hundreds of prospective Masons. Through patience, knowledge, and example, he helped guide many men into the fraternity, leaving a lasting impact on generations of brothers who will remember his steady guidance and unwavering commitment to the Craft.

Don was a member of Anglican Church of St. Andrew. He was also a member of the National Rifle Association. In his spare time, he enjoyed boating, was an avid fisherman, and loved tinkering with mechanical items to understand how they worked-rarely content until he had taken something apart and put it back together again.

Together, Don and his beloved wife, Adrienne Joy Griffaw, built a lively and loving home on Sweetbriar Drive, raising six children: son Donald Scott “Scotty”; twins Guy “Gary” and Terrance “Terry”; their “rose between the thorns,” daughter Julie Dee; followed by sons Donald “Donny” and Michael “Shayne.” Their home became the center of countless gatherings and cherished family memories. Don was a devoted grandfather to 13 grandchildren, Stephanie Rollins, Feem Griffaw, Kristen Griffaw, Taylor Griffaw, Tad Strick, Toy Strick, Shayne Chandler, Jacqueline Johnson, Elise Crawford, Ian Griffaw, Tyson Griffaw, Grayson Griffaw, and Addyson Griffaw. and 14 great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

He is survived by his brothers, Elmer (Jean) Griffaw and Duane Griffaw; and his sister, Norma Jean “Carolyn” Dean.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Adrienne Joy Griffaw in 2025; sons, Donald Scott “Scotty” Griffaw and Terrance Lyn Griffaw; his father, Hugo Thomas Griffaw; his mother, Dessa C. (nee Angle) Lesley; and his sister, Mary Rosalyn Konanan.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.