Donald Caplan, of Rockville, Maryland, passed away on May 26, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on July 5, 1932, Donald lived a long and meaningful life marked by devotion to family, service to his country, dedication to the law, and deep kindness toward others.

Donald was a proud graduate of City College of Baltimore and the University of Maryland, Class of 1954. He went on to earn his law degree from George Washington Law School. He served in the United States Navy during the Korean War before beginning a distinguished legal career in Maryland that spanned more than 60 years. Practicing in several firms and later in his own practice, Donald was highly respected by his clients, colleagues, and all who knew him. The law was not only his profession but one of his deepest passions, and he continued working until the age of 90.

Above all, Donald was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was inherently decent, thoughtful, and unfailingly concerned with the well-being of those around him. He had a quiet strength and generosity of spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Donald was predeceased by his first wife, Joyce Caplan, and his second wife, Honey Skoller. He is survived by his children, Mitchell, Erica, Daryl, and Ross; and his grandchildren, Cole, Joshua, Elena, and Hannah. 

A longtime University of Maryland alumnus and devoted sports fan, Donald loved cheering for the Maryland Terrapins, the Washington Commanders, and the Washington Nationals. He was also a voracious reader who passed along his love of books to his children, and he enjoyed collecting antique inkwells. He was a member of B’nai Israel in Rockville. 

He will be missed by many. No memorial service is planned. In Donald’s memory, charitable donations may be made to PBS at https://www.pbs.org/about/about-pbs/support-pbs/.