Donald Donath

Donald Donath of Lafayette, New York, passed away on April 24, 2026, at the age of 90.

He was born on April 19, 1936, in Buffalo, New York, to Irene and Horace Donath, and grew up in Batavia, New York. Don graduated from Michigan State University in 1958 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. That same year, he married his beloved wife, Nancy Borgquist.

Shortly after graduation, Don and Nancy moved to Arizona, where he began a Master’s program in Engineering. In 1960, they made the adventurous journey back east in a Triumph TR3, towing a trailer with a pregnant Nancy and their German Shepherd. Upon arriving in the Syracuse area, Don began his career at General Electric, where he worked until his retirement. Just two weeks after settling in Syracuse, their first son, Kurt, was born. Their second son, Carl, joined the family in 1967.

Don was a man of many passions, which he pursued with enthusiasm and dedication throughout his life. An avid photographer, he enjoyed developing his own prints. He was also an avid outdoorsman who loved extended backpacking trips and rock climbing. Deeply committed to Scouting, he served as Assistant Scoutmaster for Liverpool Troop 222 and later founded and served as Scoutmaster for Troop 100 in Lafayette. Don had a strong interest in Western history and enjoyed traveling the Oregon Trail with Nancy. Together, he and Nancy were also dedicated gardeners.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 68 years, Nancy; his two sons, Kurt and Carl; eight grandchildren: Kirsten, Kyle, Caleb, Joshua, David, Jonathan, Karyn, and Isaac; and eight great-grandchildren: Ramsey, Rudy, Maxwell, Amory, Riley, Kinsley, Finley, and Eleanora.

The family would like to express their deep gratitude to the dedicated aides who provided compassionate care for both Don and Nancy, with special thanks to daughter-in-law Kathy and granddaughter Karyn, who lovingly oversaw that care.

Don will be buried with his wife at her passing at which time a memorial service will be held at the Lafayette Alliance Church.