Donald Sineti Fundraiser

Donald (“Don”) Sineti is well known as a man with a big voice and an even bigger heart.

Don has lived a full and interesting life filled with adventures, art, love, and music.

Don, who chose to serve in Vietnam due to his high moral code, was one of the only men strong enough to carry the heaviest artillery and shoot a perfect target every time. He was recognized back then for his commanding and strong voice which his friends and family have come to know and love.

Don went on to perform with a group called The Morgans who were noted for playing at taverns such as the Russian Lady and Mad Murphy’s. Later, Don and his friends, the group Americana, spent many evenings playing at The Pub in Manchester. Don was very proud to be a protégé of Stan Hugill, who is known as the “Last Working Shantyman.” One of Don’s prized possessions is a note from Mr. Hugill stating that Don had “the best shanty voice he had ever heard.”

Don took with him his commanding voice and love of music and spent twenty-seven years as “The Shanty Man,” performing as an active member of the Mystic, Connecticut community. It has been said that his voice is so strong that he could be heard from the bridge in downtown Mystic when he was singing aboard the Charles W. Morgan whaleship. He was a regular at the sea music festival and worked with the summer Conrad sailing campers.

Don was also proud to participate in whale festivals in Maui and in Alaska. One of his greatest achievements was working with the Cetacean Society to get the sperm whale adopted as the Connecticut state animal. While many of his art pieces of whales have been showcased in publications, he also spent much time creating specialized illustrations for friends.

Don, while known as being the confirmed bachelor of Mystic Seaport for many years, married his sweetheart Mary in June of 2020. As it was mid-pandemic, the after-ceremony consisted of friends socially distancing while lining the street outside Mary and Don’s home to sing songs for the couple. Don was grateful to gain two granddaughters through his marriage to Mary and shared with them his love of shanties, art, and nature.

It is no question that Don leaves a lasting impression on all who he encounters. He always has a big smile and kind word to share about everyone. Recently, he was diagnosed with a sepsis infection that requires 24 hour professional care. This GoFundMe has been set up by his wife and family in order to assist in offsetting the costs related to his care. Any donations are greatly appreciated.

We thank you for keeping Don in your thoughts and prayers. If you are so inclined, perhaps you will sing a verse of The Leavin' of Liverpool in his honor.