Obituary of Donald D. Cheney

Warrensburg: Donald D. Cheney, Sr., 74, of Hudson Street, passed away on Thursday, December 31, 2009 at his home surrounded by his loving and devoted family. Born on July 29, 1935 in Glens Falls, he was the son of the late Leland and Irene (Smith) Cheney. A lifelong resident of the area, Don worked as a stone and brick mason and was also affiliated with the Local 2 Bricklayers and Allied Craft Workers. He was well known throughout the Adirondack’s for his beautiful fireplaces, chimneys, and brickwork in Storytown at the Great Escape. He was especially proud of the entrance into the theme park. In his younger years, Don was a stock car driver, which led him to be an avid NASCAR fan. His favorite pastime was watching the races on Sunday afternoons. His love for showing horses gave him and his late wife, Ernestine Cheney, an interest in becoming the co-founders of the Adirondack Gymkhana’s over 20 years ago. He enjoyed taking long rides and camping. He loved animals including horses and dogs, especially his “little buddy,” Oscar, who was always there by his side until the very end. Besides his parents, he is predeceased by his sisters: Sharon Cutter, Lorraine Flewelling, Patty Lalond, Lois Prosser, and Joyce Cheney. He is survived by his devoted wife of 18 years, Gayle (Baker) Cheney; his son, Donald Cheney, Jr. and his wife, Bonnie of Michigan; four daughters: Amy Cheney Shattuck of Binghamton; Christine Richardson and her husband, John; Melissa Barrett and her husband, Duke; and Tracey Cheney; his stepson, Daniel Williams and his wife, Sueann all of Warrensburg; sisters; Naomi Bancroft, Barbara Flint, and brother, Leland Cheney, all of West Glens Falls. He is also survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Friends may call on Don’s family from 5 to 8 pm, Wednesday, January 6, 2010, at the Alexander-Baker Funeral Home, 3809 Main St., Warrensburg. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be conducted following the visitation at 8 pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations in Don’s memory may be made to the Warren County SPCA, 55 Bay St., Glens Falls, NY 12801. Please visit www.alexanderfuneralhomes.com or www.alexanderfh.net for online guestbook, condolences or directions.