Enea Family Funeral Home

12/25/2025

12/22/2025

This season reminds us how meaningful it is when friends show up for one another. In our profession, that spirit of friendship becomes a team of dedicated funeral professionals supporting each other with compassion, care, and understanding. Together, we’re grateful for one another and for the families and community we serve every day.

Wishing you peace, comfort, and connection this holiday season. Happy Holidays from all of us. 🤍

12/21/2025

Martin J. Connarton

Martin J. Connarton, age 78, of Dover, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025, at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Throughout these last months of illness and during his passing, Marty was surrounded by the love and support of his children and grandchildren.

Born on August 25, 1947, in Exeter, New Hampshire, Marty was the son of the late James and Mildred (Corliss) Connarton. From his early days, he was always someone who lived life with his own sense of purpose and originality.

After high school, Marty joined the U.S. Navy, where he served overseas during the Vietnam War. This experience shaped him into a person who believed deeply in service and sacrifice. When he returned home, he dove headfirst into education, earning his undergraduate degree in social work from Holy Apostles College with a minor in philosophy, and later, his MSW and DCSW from UConn’s School of Social Work.

From there, he dedicated his life to helping others, specifically those struggling with mental health and substance abuse, as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). His career was a testament to his passion for helping people. He proudly worked well into his seventies, until his health no longer allowed him to do so.

Marty wasn’t just a social worker; he was a devoted Catholic, a patriot, a philosopher, a lifeguard, and earlier in life, a passionate stock car driver and enthusiast. Marty never missed a chance to share his eclectic and often eccentric opinions. His favorite conversations revolved around theology, philosophy, and politics.

A lover of literature, Marty was a lifelong reader, always with a book in hand. Some of his favorites were The Catcher in the Rye and The Great Gatsby. His mind was always in motion, whether he was reading, talking politics, or calling into his son Matthew's radio show to offer his take on current events.

He very much supported the show’s emphasis on music. He believed that we live in the "golden age of music" and was a true supporter of independent musicians, often championing college radio with the enthusiasm of younger generations.

While his love for sports, especially the New England Patriots and the UConn Huskies, was well known, Marty had a strong passion for exercise. He could often be found at the seacoast in the summer, where he swam the open ocean with skill and experience. He was also a strong advocate for keeping the mind and body sharp, always emphasizing the importance of a healthy diet and avoiding processed sugar.

Marty was previously married to the former Deborah Della Posta of Frankfort, NY, with whom he shared his two younger children, Linsey and Ryan. Along with his oldest son, Matthew, Marty blended his family and was immensely proud of them. In his later years, life brought him grandchildren, and he adored them beyond words.

Marty was predeceased by his parents, James and Mildred Connarton, and his brothers, Stephen and James.

Marty is survived by his three children, Matthew Connarton and his partner, Jenn Coffey, of Manchester, NH, Linsey and Garry Rumrill II of Frankfort, NY, and Ryan Connarton and Ashley Davis of Clayville, NY; his beloved grandchildren, Brady Della Rumrill and Garry Joseph Rumrill III; and his brother, Matthew Connarton of Dover, NH.

His wit, wisdom, and the unforgettable way he made every conversation feel like a lesson in life will be missed by all who knew him.

Marty’s family would like to extend their deepest and most sincere gratitude to the extraordinary healthcare team at Massachusetts General Hospital, particularly the staff of the Coronary Care Unit and Phillips House in the Ellison Building.

Marty’s funeral will take place on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 3:00PM-4:00PM at the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000. All are invited to share stories, laugh, and celebrate the extraordinary life of a man who always made sure to keep it interesting. In honoring Marty’s deep Roman Catholic faith, a prayer service will be held at 4:00PM at the funeral home. Spring interment will take place in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Frankfort.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.

View Martin J. Connarton's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/17/2025

Thomas A. Zuccaro

Mr. Thomas A. Zuccaro, age 73, passed away on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Wynn Hospital in Utica, NY.

Tommy was born on September 11, 1952, in Little Falls, NY, the son of Rudolph and Virginia Zuccaro (Kazmierski). He grew up in Little Falls and was a graduate of Little Falls High School.

Thomas lived a life full of dedication as a firefighter for the City of Little Falls Fire Department, retiring in the 1990’s. He then went on to further establish himself as the owner and operator of Fire Equipment Repair. Tommy served many fire departments in New York State, as well as Virginia. Fire departments he proudly served included; St Johnsville, Herkimer, Ilion, Frankfort, Frankfort Hill, Schuyler, Ames, Morrisville, Madison, North Brookfield, R.G.L., Paris Hill, Forestport, Utica, Boonville, Sylvan Beach, Jefferson, Raquette Lake, Eagle Bay, Inlet, Waterville, Deansboro, Clinton, Westmoreland, Clayville, Clinton, Hartwick, Fort Ann, East Herkimer, Old Forge, Cincinnatus, West Fulton, Grand Gorge, Sherrill Kenwood, West Leyden, Mohawk, Savannah, Canoga, Webb, Tasley VA., Melfa VA., Onley VA., Cape Charles VA., Cheriton VA., Bloxom VA., Eastville VA., Atlantic VA. Tommy made sure the equipment and fire trucks were in tip top shape to be able to serve and protect these communities.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Virgina (Kazmierski) Zuccaro.

Tommy is survived by his son, Ryan Zuccaro and his partner Emily Scarano, Ryan’s mother, Lorraine Heath and several cousins, including Richard “Dickie” Zuccaro who was like a brother to him and Ronnie Martin. He leaves behind many dear friends who would tell you that “Zuc” had some great one-liners and was a generous man. He will be missed greatly by all of those who had the honor of knowing him.

Calling hours for Thomas will be held Friday, December 19th, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow, commencing at 6:00 p.m., at the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Rd., Ilion, NY, with Rev. Dr. Steven Scarcia officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Johnsville Volunteer Fire Department in memory of Tommy. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or donations can be mailed to the St. Johnsville Volunteer Fire Department, 6 W. Main St., St. Johnsville, NY 13452.

Anyone wishing to share a memory of Tommy, or add to his online memorial, may go to www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

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12/15/2025

Tina L. O'Dell

Tina L. O’Dell, age 52, a resident of Herkimer, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, at the Wynn Hospital in Utica.

Born on September 24, 1973, Tina is the daughter of Karen (Lee) and Joseph L. O’Dell, Jr. She was raised and educated in Palatine Bridge and graduated from Gloversville High School. She also attended Hamilton-Fulton-Montgomery BOCES and Fulton Montgomery Community College.

Tina was predeceased by her son Rodney Langlois and grandson Aiden O'Dell.

Tina loved her family with all her heart. She was a devoted mother and grandmother. For the last sixteen years, she has shared in a loving union with Carl C. McNeal. Together, they shared in many years filled with love, laughter and family.

Aside from her parent and her life partner, Carl, Tina is also survived by her brother Joseph O'Dell his daughter Alexis O'Dell; along with her life long friend Maralee Farrant; Carrie Workman and her children, Summer Fineout, Jaidalynn Black, Destin Serafin, Rylee Serafin. Shane O’Dell and his children, Jaylnn, Avery, David and Andrew; Jacob O’Dell and Natalie Cresong and their children, Khalaeh Ashley, Charles Ashley, Jr., Addisyn O’Dell and Bentley O’Dell; Devan McNeal, McKenzie McNeal and her son, Hakeem Wilson, Mycahl Cannon, Makayla Boclair and her kids, Israel Thaggard Boclair and Irielle Ward, Joseph Pablovich and his kids, Zakora Pablovich and Marianna Pablovich

In keeping with Tina’s wishes there will be no formal calling hours or funeral service. Her family will gather to celebrate her life in the spring.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate funeral directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.

View Tina L. O'Dell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/10/2025

Donatella M. Aceto

HERKIMER – Mrs. Donatella M. Aceto, a lifelong resident of Herkimer, New York, passed away on Monday, December 8th, 2025, at Wynn Hospital just a day after her 90th birthday.

Born on December 7th, 1935, in Herkimer, New York, Donnie was the daughter of the late Antonio and Jennie (Colonna) Angelicchio. She grew up in Herkimer, where her roots ran deep, and on August 11, 1962, she began a beautiful journey of love and partnership when she married her soulmate, Michael Aceto. Together, they nurtured a loving marriage for 63 wonderful years.

Family was the heart of Donnie’s world. She showered her loved ones with unwavering affection, embodying the role of a caring wife and devoted mother. A proud member of Sts. Anthony & Joseph Church, Donnie’s faith played a central role in her life. Throughout her years, she worked in various local establishments, including Duofold, the HCCC cafeteria, and Big Jim's Sub Shop, all while cherishing moments spent with family, reveling in trips to the casino, and watching game shows on television in the evenings.

Donnie is survived by her loving husband Michael P. Aceto Sr., along with her beloved children: John (Susan), Marie Elaine, Michele, Michael (Lisa), Thomas (Beth), and Suzanne. She was the proud grandmother of ten grandchildren: Antonio Peter, Giovanni, Gabriel, Bianca, Olivia, Antonio Vito, Angelina, Santino, Isabella, and Dominick, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.

She was preceded in death by her dear siblings and their spouses: Bernard and Josephine Angelicchio, Dominick “Mickey” Angelicchio, Vito and Frances Angelicchio, as well as her sisters and brothers-in-law: Lucy and Arminio Lidano, Louise and John Gardinier, Rose and Stanley Nobles, Antoinette Angelicchio, and Genevieve “Chick” Angelicchio, each of whose memory she held close to her heart.

Donnie also leaves behind a wide circle of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and in-laws, all of whom will miss her kind spirit and warm smile.

Funeral services honoring her life will take place on Saturday, December 13th, 2025, starting at 10:15 AM at The Enea Family Funeral Home located at 220 North Washington Street, Herkimer, followed by an 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Family Parish Church, corner of East Main & John Streets in Little Falls. The family will gather for interment in the spring of 2026 at Calvary Cemetery in Herkimer.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during calling hours on Friday, December 12th, 2025, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the funeral home on North Washington Street in Herkimer.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Donnie’s memory may consider making a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital by visiting www.stjude.org.

To leave a note of sympathy and share memories, please visit the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com.

Donatella M. Aceto will be forever remembered for her kindness, love, and the immeasurable joy she brought to those around her.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 866-1011.

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12/10/2025

Gloria A. (Weller) Watts

Gloria A. (Weller) Watts, age 93, formerly of Ilion and Little Falls, went to be with our Lord, on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025.

She was born on April 6, 1932, in Little Falls, NY, the daughter of Ernest and Julia (Harwick) Primmar. Gloria graduated from Ilion High School in 1950, where she was Captain of several Girl’s athletic teams. She later attended Cortland State Teacher’s College, where she was a member of the Ski & Swim Teams. On June 27, 1953, she was married to Donald Weller, at the Ilion Methodist Church. He died on Oct. 29, 1999. She later married James T. Watts (P.O.W.), who died in 2014. Gloria worked as a Lab Technician at General Electric Co., Utica, for over 30 years, receiving many awards and was inducted 3 times into the Suggestion Hall of Fame. She also was a former member of the Ilion Baptist Church and received the Award of Excellence for her service. Gloria worked on the Annual Ilion Baptist Church Roast Beef Dinner, where she was known as the Gravy Master. She was a 65-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Surviving family members include her 3 children, Donald Todd Weller and his wife, Carol, Pamela Lawrence and her husband, David, and Priscilla LeMay and her husband, Michael; 2 step-sons, Craig Watts and his wife, Debra, and Ryan Watts and his wife, Lynn; 6 grandchildren, Kathryn and Matt Weller-Zembo, Rebecca Weller and her wife, Mari, Matthew Lawrence and his wife, Calin, Timothy Lawrence and his wife, Ashley, and Alex & Shelly LeMay; 4 step-grandchildren, Quinn, Alyssa, Kyra and Lauryn Watts; 5 great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and one cousin.

She was predeceased by her 2 husbands, Donald in 1999, and James in 2014; 6 brothers & sisters and their spouses; and her infant daughter.

Visitation will be held on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Applegate-Day & Enea Family Funeral Home’s original location, at 102 West St., Ilion. Her Funeral Service will follow at 5:00 p.m., at the Funeral Home, with Pastor H. Ed Reed, of the Christian Bible Church, Mohawk, officiating. Spring burial will be held at Armory Hill Cemetery, Ilion, during May of 2026.

Anyone wishing to share a memory of Gloria, or add to her online memorial, may go to www.applegateandday.com on the Internet.

In lieu of flowers, as a token of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Childrens’ Hospital, 516 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104. Envelopes will also be available at the Funeral Home, or you can click the link below.

Gloria’s service arrangements & supervision are entrusted to the family’s life-long family friend & neighbor, Don Applegate, Funeral Director, at Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Directors (315-895-7722).

View Gloria A. (Weller) Watts's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/03/2025

Thomas F. Ladlee

Mr. Thomas F. Ladlee, age 62, passed away Tuesday, November 25th, 2025, in the comfort of his home.

Thomas was born on September 8th,1963, in Flemington , NJ. He was the son of the late Jerry and Arla Ladlee (Belmont). Thomas graduated from Mount Markham High School. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S Navy. On August 30th, 1997, Thomas married Irene Wood in Leonardsville, NY. Together they built a life full of love, family and cherished memories. Thomas was employed by NYS as a safety and security officer, he did this at Valley Ridge CIT in Norwich for 21 years, he retired in March of 2023. Prior to his 21 yearlong commitment, he worked for Titan Homes for 8 years.

Thomas enjoyed hunting, demolition derby's and four wheeling. His greatest passion was riding his beloved Harley Road King, Roberta. He was a dedicated father; he supported his daughters throughout their lives and attended every high school sporting event they had.

Thomas is preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Arla Ladlee, his brother Jerry Ladlee II, sister Juli Jones and his father-in-law Alfred “Woody” Wood.

He is survived by his wife, Irene Ladlee, his stepson Jesse Major, and his cherished daughters, Amy Sue Ladlee, Kennedy Ladlee (Charles Pace), Claire Ladlee and Ceara Ladlee (Klane Russell). His brothers, Robert and Ryan Ladlee, sisters; Missy (Arla) Davenport (Leon), and Jamie Barnard. He also leaves behind the two greatest joys of his life, his grandson Cassius Thomas Pace and his granddaughter Juniper Arla Pace. Thomas has two nephews who were very special to him, Kelly and Kristopher Jones. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Donna Wood and brother-in-law, Rich Ephraim.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no formal services. His family will be having a celebration of life to honor Thomas at a date to be announced in the spring.

His obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website by visiting www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

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12/01/2025

Sandra E. Fauvelle

Mrs. Sandra E. Fauvelle, age 79, of Ilion, NY passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at the Abraham House of Utica.

Sandra was born on April 13, 1946, in Potsdam, NY. Daughter of the late Gerald and Wilna Forbes (Tiffany). She graduated from Potsdam High School. On November 27, 1985, she married her one true love, Gary Fauvelle. They shared many years together before Gary’s passing in 2021.

Sandra worked for the Village of Ilion for many years as an account clerk. She greatly enjoyed hosting; her table place settings were always exquisite. She baked Christmas cookies for her family every year and loved to cook, especially her lasagna. Sandy was also a very skilled quilter; she made quilts for all of her family members and would knit them hats and gloves every winter. Sandy absolutely adored her dog, Jenny.

Sandra is preceded in death by her husband Gary E. Fauvelle, her brother Bruce Forbes and her parents.

She is survived by her sister Carol Matthie, nephews Steven Matthie and Christopher Matthie, her niece Susan Matthie, as well as her great nieces and nephews, Christopher, Kaitlyn, Andrew, Cayenne and Nicole. Sandy also leaves behind her lifelong best friends, June and Mary Jane.

Sandras' family would like to thank Hospice and the Abraham House for their compassion and care, specifically Anne. They would also like to thank Sandra’s caregivers Nicky and Makayla for the compassionate care they provided.

In keeping with Sandy’s wishes, there will be no formal services, her and her husband will be laid to rest at the convenience of her family in North Columbia Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the Abraham House by visiting the link below or mailed to the Abraham House, 1203 Kemble Street, Utica, NY 13501. You may also consider a donation to Hospice and Palliative Care by visiting their website or mailing a donation to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc 4277 Middle Settlement Rd. New Hartford NY 13413.

Her obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website by visiting www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 894-8000.

View Sandra E. Fauvelle's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/01/2025

Debra (Duell) Farr

Debra A. “Debb” Farr, age 65, passed away unexpectedly on November 25, 2025, at Wynn Hospital. At the time of her passing, she was surrounded by the love and support of her family at her side.

Born on May 4, 1960, Debra was the daughter of the late James and Virginia (Stoker) Duell. She was raised and educated in Rome, NY, where she built the foundation for a life defined by compassion, dedication, and love.

Debb devoted her career to the human services field, working for many years as an activities director in local nursing homes. She shared her talents and warm spirit at Sitrin Healthcare, Focus Rehab, the Oneida Center, and RCIL. Most notably, she spent nearly a decade serving as the Director of Activities at The Grand in Ilion, where she became family not only to the residents she cared for, but to the staff who worked alongside her. Her passing leaves a profound void in their close-knit community.

Debb’s caregiving nature extended far beyond her profession. When she wasn’t tending to those at work, she was pouring her heart into her own family—the people she cherished above all else. She was nurturing, endlessly giving, and the kind of person who made everyone feel seen and cared for. Debb enjoyed a good cup of coffee, treasured movie nights with her grandchildren, and found joy in cooking and baking for the people she loved. Debb's life was blessed with the companionship of Jerry Roth, whom was the love of her life and her best friend. They spent many years of laughter and togetherness until Jerry's passing May 18, 2023.

Debb will be remembered for her kindness, her warmth, and the way she made every place she entered feel like home. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Kenneth and Cassandra Race of Vernon; her daughters, Christina Williams of Rome, Mackenzie Kelly of Ilion and Brianna Andrews of Rome; her grandchildren, Lance Williams and Judy Benjamin, Caidence Race, Parker Race, Wyatt Race and Caleb Paver; and her great-grandchildren, Adalynn, Hunter, Xavier, Nova and Kyileena. She also leaves her brothers and sister-in-law, Michael Duell and Gary and Amanda Duell; her sister and brother-in-law, Terri and Pat Kinsella; many nieces and nephews, with special mention of Faith and Ryan Hoskey, Tyler Kinsella and Cody Kinsella; her beloved dog, Chalee; and many more extended family members and friends, especially her Grand healthcare family. Debb was predeceased by her son, Lance Frank; and by her grandparents, Mildred and John Duell and Fred and Ruth Baulf.

There will be no formal calling hours or funeral service at this time. A Celebration of Debb's Life will take place at a date and time to be announced.

For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to The Grand Rehab & Nursing, Activities Department, 99 Sixth Avenue, Ilion, NY 13357. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Debb's family has entrusted her final wishes to the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.

View Debra (Duell) Farr's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/01/2025

Marie J. Duffy

Mrs. Marie Joan Duffy, age 97, of Ilion, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, in the comfort of her home. At the time of her passing, Marie was surrounded by the love of her family at her bedside.

Born in Utica on June 24, 1928, Marie was the daughter of the late Rocco Richard and Lucy (Sinisgalli) Pacielio. She was raised and educated in Utica, graduating from the Utica Free Academy with the Class of 1946.

On August 20, 1949, she married the love of her life, Francis G. Duffy, at St. Patrick’s Church in Utica. They shared many cherished years together until his passing on January 1,1987.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Marie dedicated much of her life to nurturing children. She taught a preschool class from her home for 11 years and later served as a foster grandmother through the MVCA program—fifteen years at Re*****on Elementary School and one year at Fisher Elementary School. She retired from this work in September 2014, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, patience, and gentle guidance.

Marie was a spunky spitfire with a kind and loving heart, the sort of woman whose zest for life drew people naturally to her. Her lovely personality shone through in everything she did—whether she was offering a warm word of encouragement, sharing a laugh that lit up the room, or embracing each day with her trademark spirit and determination. She touched others not just through her actions, but through the joy and energy she brought to the world around her.

Marie is survived by her children, Thomas Duffy and Deb Defour of Florida, Mary and Kevin Earl of Troy and Carol and Robert Carney of Ilion; and her grandchildren, Becky Dean (Nick), Eric Moreau (Julie), Andrea Cofrin, Patrick Duffy (Madeline), Erin Duffy, Ryan Duffy, Timothy Earl (Tarrah), Lauren Strack (Andrew) and Justin Carney (Michelle). Marie also leaves behind her treasured great-grandchildren, Kathleen and Colin Dean, Canon, Braden and Colton Moreau, Rhiannon and Remy Cofrin and Cole and Gavin Strack; her son-in-law, Thomas Moreau and his wife, Caroline; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and extended family members.

Marie was predeceased by her parents; her beloved husband, Francis; her daughter, Kathleen Moreau; and her brother, Richard Pacielio.

In keeping with Marie’s wishes, her family will gather privately to bid their farewells to her and she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Francis, in Calvary Cemetery in Utica.

For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY 13413.

Marie’s final wishes were pre-arranged and entrusted to the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000, Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.

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11/28/2025

Donald C. Willner

Donald C. “Don” Willner of Ilion, NY passed away on November 27th, 2025, at age 79 from complications of pancreatic cancer.

He is survived by his wife, Joan Prymas; his sister Margaret Reiman (Michael Madden); his brother Martin (Cheryl), his children Melanie Pollay (Dan), Jennifer Susa, and Keith (Mary Gallo); 5 beloved grandchildren: Jordan Susa; Shelby Dewan; Ian, Claire, and Charlotte Willner; sister-in-law Linda Prymas; two nephews and their families; dear friends Julie and Ellen Dewan, Bill Perrotti, Mike Sewall; and great neighbors and friends.

Don was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse and grew up in Manlius. He is the youngest child of Erwin and Lucile Willner. He attended Clarkson University where he received a BS in mathematics in 1968 and an MS in mathematics in 1969.

Don began his career at MVCC in 1969 where he joined the mathematics department. His dedication to teaching and his students soon became apparent making him a much-beloved professor. He was promoted to department chair of mathematics and later dean of the STEM center. He also was a longtime advisor to Phi Theta Kappa, the national junior college honor society. Don contributed to the education of countless people and retired in 2012. He was inducted into the MVCC Hall of Fame in 2017 and continued to support the faculty and staff after his retirement. He and his friends, Mike and Bill, formed an annual tradition of welcoming everyone back to campus on the first day of classes – from across the street in lounge chairs with coffee in hand.

Don was an active member of the New York State Mathematics Association of Two-Year Colleges where he led the NYSMATYC Math League aided by friend and former classmate Michael Hellinger from 1992-2009 and was honored with the Outstanding Contributions to NYSMATYC award in 2001.

Don had a passion for running. He completed 38 Boilermakers (last one at age 78) as well as countless shorter races, including winning the 75 and older age group this year in the 5K Run Around Ilion while undergoing chemotherapy.

Don also loved woodworking and restoring antiques. He found tremendous joy in making frames and small furniture for family and close friends. His work was featured in the Local Artisan Section of the Ilion Hardware Store.

Don loved the outdoors. He looked forward to fishing the lakes and rivers of Central New York and the coast of Maine. Taking friends and family out on Lake Delta was a favorite go-to fishing adventure. He took great pride in his yard and garden and even made sure he planted the garlic this fall. He also loved to travel; visiting Old Orchard Beach in Maine twice a year was a much-loved trip. His favorite sports were baseball, hockey, and football…even though the Yankees never won a game when he was in attendance.

Don and his family extend their gratitude for the tremendous compassionate care he received at Faxton Infusion Center and the Wynn Hospital.

Don requested his life be celebrated in a private setting. In lieu of gifts, you may honor his memory by making a donation to the MVCC Foundation [https://www2.mvcc.edu/foundation/campaign/], specifically to the Ted Moore Scholarship.

Don's arrangements have been entrusted to the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate funeral directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.

His obituary was lovingly composed by his family.

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