Donald J. Sengstaken, P. E., mechanical and environmental engineer, former Manhasset resident and longtime resident of Clearwater, FL, died peacefully in his home on July 18, 1998.

Son of the late John H. and Ruth Kanofsky Sengstaken, Donald was born in Brooklyn, NY, on April 24, 1925. Growing up in Plandome, he graduated from Manhasset High School. He was an active member of the Plandome Old Timers club.

Mr. Sengstaken received a B. S. in mechanical engineering from Columbia University School of Engineering in 1945, a B. A. from Columbia University in 1945 and an M. S. in mechanical engineering from Columbia University School of Engineering in 1947. While at Columbia he was an accomplished and active drummer and violinist, performing with the Columbia Marching Band and Blue Lions Dance Band. He was a member of the V-12 Naval Unit during World War II and achieved the rank of Ensign for a tour of duty in the Pacific.

Early in his career, Mr. Sengstaken was on the team of engineers sent by Long Island Lighting Company to work on the development of the original Enrico Fermi Nuclear Power Plant in Detroit, MI. He also contributed to work at the Brookhaven National Laboratory.

Mr. Sengstaken moved to Clearwater, FL, in 1977 when he became a sales executive for Zurn Industries in Tampa. He also served as vice president of sales at Woodward-Clyde Consultants, NJ, and, most recently, president of E & E Environmental Consulting, Clearwater, FL. He was a member of St. John's Episcopal Church, as well as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. An avid golfer, Mr. Sengstaken was also a member of the Feather Sound Country Club for many years.

Known affectionately as "Gumpy" to his family, he leaves Barbara (White) Sengstaken, his beloved wife of 50 years; daughters Nancy Wright of Needham, MA, and Shelley Dolan of Davie, FL; son Bruce W. Sengstaken of St. Petersburg, FL; four grandchildren, one niece and four nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 31, at St. John's Episcopal Church, Clearwater, FL. Donations in Mr. Sengstaken's name may be made to Hospice of the Sun Coast, Largo, FL 34640 or to a local Hospice organization.