Donald W. Arthur, pharmacist, industry leader

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Donald W. Arthur, 72, of Williamsville, a pharmacist and leader in the pharmacy industry, died Wednesday, July 4, 2007 in Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital. Born in Buffalo, Mr. Arthur was a graduate of Bennett High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Buffalo's School of Pharmacy in 1957 where he was also a member and officer of Kappa Phi Pharmaceutical Fraternity. He also served as president of his junior class and student council.

His business career began in 1959 when he bought Black Rock Pharmacy in Buffalo. Along with his partners, Mr. Arthur went on to acquire a total of eight pharmacies in the metro area.

In 1998, Mr. Arthur and partner William Fleming sold six of the original stores to Eckerd Corp. The other two stores, Black Rock Pharmacy and Brighton-Eggert Pharmacy, remain family owned and operated by Mr. Arthur's sons, Bradley and Donald Jr., as well as their sister, Susan.

During his accomplished career, Mr. Arthur was elected to the board of the Erie County Pharmaceutical

Association in 1959. In 1968, he served as president of the association. In 1971, he was honored

as Outstanding Pharmacist of Erie County.

Mr. Arthur went on to serve as president of the Pharmaceutical Society of the State of New York, as well as serving on two policy-making committees for the American Pharmaceutical Association. In 1988, he served as president of the National Association of Retail Druggists.

He was elected chairman of the board of Ellicott Drug Company and was instrumental in the sale of the company to Cardinal Health of Columbus, Ohio.

With community service in mind, Mr. Arthur served as chairman of the Pharmacy Division of United Fund and of the Pharmacy Advisory Committee of Erie County's Department of Social Welfare. He was included in "Outstanding Young Men of America," a publication of the Junior Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. Arthur was a longtime member of Transit Valley Country Club.

Mr. Arthur is survived by his wife of 49 years, Diane DiLapo; three sons, Michael, Donald Jr., and Bradley; a daughter, Susan Lee; and nine grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held July 9 at St. Gregory the Great Church.