Obituary of Donald Frederick Stearns

Brasher Falls – Donald F. Stearns, 85, passed away peacefully Wednesday, August 7, 2013 in the comfort of his home. Arrangements have been entrusted with the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. He was born on April 6, 1928 in Syracuse, son of the late Charles C. and Dora (Clark) Stearns. After graduating from Canton High School, he went on to continue his education and graduated from the Crane School of Music at SUNY at Potsdam with his Bachelor’s Degree and then his Master’s Degree in Music Education. Donald and Helen (Kennehan) were joined in the Sacrament of Marriage on October 8, 1976 at St. Patrick Chapel in Colton with Fr. John P. Kennehan performing the ceremony. They shared 36 years, blessed with mutual respect and affection for each other. Donald taught music at South Norfolk, Virginia, Parishville – Hopkinton Central School, Peekskill Central School, Brushton – Moira Central School and Tupper Lake Central School, retiring in September of 1985 He enjoyed golf and bowling, challenged his mind by solving crossword puzzles and relaxed with a good book. Since the age 14, he played his cornet with many local bands and retired his cornet in the late 1990’s. He loved music, but above all else he cherished his time spent with family and friends. Don is survived by his wife, Helen; his children, Patrick Stearns of Foxboro, MA, Donald Stearns of Lakeland, FL, Clark Stearns, Thomas Stearns and Lorri DiNapoli, all of Massena; one sister, Marjorie Hudson of Waverly; five grandchildren; 1 great granddaughter; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Visitation will be held Saturday from 4 to 7 at the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. A Mass of Christian Burial for Donald will be Monday at 11 am at the Church of the Visitation in Norfolk with his brother in law, Fr. John P. Kennehan celebrating. Burial will be at a later date in St. Patrick Cemetery in Brasher Falls. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in Don’s memory; please consider donations to Catholic Charities Adoption Fund, Diocese of Ogdensburg, 716 Caroline Street, Ogdensburg, NY 13669 Memories and condolences can be shared with Donald’s family at www.hammillfh.com.