MARKING A MILESTONE WITH A CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY
Donald F. Scharf, '51
1933 - 2016
The old adage tells us that it is better to give than to receive. In some cases, however, you can give and receive, and everyone benefits! By making a major gift in the form of a charitable gift annuity, Don Scharf '51 did just that.
At the time of the 55th Reunion of the Class of '51, Don commented: "I have decided to make a large gift to Notre Dame in the form of a charitable gift annuity. This is a way for me to make a substantial gift and to generate an income stream for my lifetime. I did this because of all the great memories that flow back each time we gather as a class for a reunion. I think of the hours on the 'rock pile' or the time spent in the marching band. I remember watching Brother Noel trudge up the hill for our science class. I remember all that Notre Dame did for me to make my life a complete and happy one, and so I do this to say Thank You!"
It was with great sadness that we noted Don's passing on December 29, 2016. Tributes to him reflected the high esteem in which he was held for his generosity and his service. Education was very important to Don, and he gave considerably of his time, talent, and treasure to both Notre Dame and to Yale University. At Notre Dame, he served twice on the Board of Directors and provided counsel to several of the school's principals and presidents. At Yale, Don participated on myriad athletic boards, including the associations for Yale football, hockey, lacrosse and basketball. He devoted much time and effort to community outreach and he was instrumental in bringing the New York Giants to Yale Bowl for two seasons in the 1970s. As a successful businessman in New York City, Don was always willing to open doors and make introductions for Notre Dame and Yale alums.
We are certain Don Scharf would be an enthusiastic proponent of Notre Dame's commitment to 21st Century teaching and learning. So it is fitting that a portion of the proceeds of Don's charitable gift annuity was used to finance a significant part of this summer's technological improvements in our classrooms. Because of Don Scharf's wise investment in the mission of Notre Dame High School, a new generation of Notre Dame Men will one day attend a class reunion with great memories flowing back.
