Donald L. Leifert Jr., a stalwart individual, emerged into the world on February 27, 1951, in the state of Maryland, where he was welcomed by his parents, Donald L. Leifert Sr. and Dolores L. Leifert, who would play a significant role in shaping his life. As the brother of a sister, Cheryl, Donald grew up surrounded by a loving family that would provide a strong foundation for his future endeavors.
As he navigated the journey of life, Donald's physique became a defining characteristic, with his imposing build and robust presence often accompanied by a distinctive mustache. His multifaceted nature was further reflected in his career, which spanned the realms of acting, teaching, and film history. However, his path was not without its challenges, as he also served as a soldier in the army during the tumultuous Vietnam War, an experience that would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his life.
Leifert's educational background is marked by a two-year stint at the esteemed Douglas-Webber Academy of Dramatic Art in London, England, where he honed his craft and laid the foundation for a successful acting career.
Following his time at the academy, Leifert embarked on a journey in the world of acting, taking on a variety of roles in a handful of low-budget, yet entertaining, sci-fi and horror movies produced by Maryland-based indie filmmaker Don Dohler.
These films, which include "Fiend," "Nightbeast," and "The Galaxy Invader," showcased Leifert's impressive range as an actor, as he brought to life a diverse array of characters, from the terrifying titular murderous ghoul to the despicable brutish lout, and even the no-count redneck.
Throughout these films, Leifert demonstrated his ability to adapt to a wide range of roles, effortlessly conveying the complexities and nuances of each character, and cementing his reputation as a talented and versatile actor.
Leifert's passion for teaching extended far beyond the realm of acting, as he dedicated himself to educating the next generation of leaders, artists, and thinkers. In Maryland, he taught English and theatre arts at multiple esteemed institutions, including the Carver School for the Arts, a renowned center for artistic excellence, Dundalk High School, a comprehensive public high school, and Towson High School, a highly-regarded public high school. Additionally, he served as a former instructor at Catonsville High School, providing guidance and mentorship to students. Furthermore, Leifert also wrote an autobiography, "Riggie: A Journey from 5th Street," which offers a captivating glimpse into his own life story, showcasing his unique experiences and insights.
Maryland resident Leifert, a man of great passion and dedication, shared his life with actress Mary Mertens, and together they resided in the charming town of Parkville.
Tragedy struck when Leifert's life was abruptly cut short at the tender age of 59 on October 23, 2010, due to natural causes, leaving behind a sense of loss and sorrow.
Despite the brevity of his life, Leifert left an indelible mark on the world, distinguished by his multifaceted talents as an actor, his commitment to teaching, and his fervent passion for film history.
