Obituary of Donald F. Carney

POTSDAM-- Donald F. Carney, 83, of Potsdam, NY, passed peacefully, June 9th, in his home after a long illness. He was born in Syracuse, son of the late Ernest and Francis Carney. Donald was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1952 serving the Cold War after WWII and into the Korean War. The majority of his work life was for the New York State Canal Corporation. He worked for 30 years and retired in 1990 as a hydraulic captain. He came out of retirement in 1991 to be involved with the Tugboat Urger Educational Program teaching 4th graders along the Erie Canal about the importance of New York's historic canal system. Donald is survived by his wife of 28 years, Rita E. Carney; his six daughters, Rosemary Andujar of Puerto Rico, Esther Carney and Deborah Payne of Hogansburg, Josephine Nancy Carney and Rebecca Carney of Syracuse, Donna Newton of Missouri; his 3 stepchildren, Robin Burke of Baldwinsville, Robert Wells of Hannibal, and Angela Goulet of Phoenix; 22 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, 22 great-great-grandchildren, 7 step-grandchildren and 1 step-great granddaughter. Donald was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was an avid bowler, fisherman, bird watcher and was happiest when he was outdoors enjoying the sun. On rainy days he loved the casino and playing bingo. He will be buried at the Saratoga National Veterans Cemetery and a celebration of his life will be at a later date. Donations can be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley and memories and condolences may be shared online at www.buckfuneralhome.com . The Buck Funeral Home in Norwood is serving the family of Donald F. Carney.