Obituary of W. Donald Makely

OAK HILL - Donald Makely died Friday, June 14, 2013. Born Wallace Donald Makely on July 13, 1938, he was youngest son of the late Wallace and Dorothy (Wood) Makely. He is survived by his sister, Anna Seal and brother, Robert Makely; he also leaves behind seven children, Ken Makely, Sam Makely, Terry Makely, Melissa Crowther, Andy Makely, Tim Makely, Tom Makely; 16 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. The majority of his adult life, he had three jobs: teacher, negotiator and farmer. A graduate of Greenville Central School (1955) and the NY State University at Albany, he also earned two masters degrees during his teaching career. Until retirement, he taught sciences in the Albany school system and served as a negotiator for the New York State United Teachers Union. Don believed in life-long learning and encouraged the pursuit of higher education. Still, at the core, his truest passion was farming. Throughout his life he was dedicated to keeping the family farm up and running. In Oak Hill, where he lived most of his life, he taught his children and others the intrinsic value of the land, and instilled the importance of hard work. His family will always be grateful for those lessons and the privilege of experiencing them first hand. In accordance with his request, Donny has been cremated. All who wish to share remembrances may visit the family at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 Route 81, Greenville, on Thursday, July 18 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Light a candle at ajcunninghamfh.com.