Obituary of Donald S. Calkins

Donald S. Calkins Keeseville - Donald S. Calkins, 90, formerly of Beach Street, Keeseville, died Sunday, April 17, 2011 at Meadowbrook Healthcare in Plattsburgh. He was born in Keeseville, August 12, 1920, the son of Artis and Vera (Stafford) Calkins. Donald grew up in Keeseville and graduated from Keeseville Central School in 1939. He was inducted with the 6th Army Air Force. He served in Surinam, South America and was attached to the 99th bombardment group serving at Landery Field. He was a custodian for 11 years at AuSable Valley Central School until his retirement in 1982. He also worked for Duncan Robertson, was trustee for the Keeseville United Methodist Church, and wound the Village clock for many years. Donald enjoyed traveling and going for walks. Donald was a 50 year member of the AuSable River Lodge and a member of the AuSable Valley Grange #973. Survivors include his family members, Carolyn Elder, and Janice Buechmann both of Yakima, WA, Arden "Rocky" Harfield of Keeseville, Carla R. Miller of Stroudsburg, PA, Sue Lovern and her husband Wayne of Roanoke, VA, Sandra Frenia and her husband Floyd of Brownsburg, IN, James King and his wife Mary of Keeseville, Sheri Pavone of Peru, Beth Harfield of Gansevoort, Michelle Miller-Vasquez of Queens, Anne King of Plattsburgh, and William "Bill" Harfield, Jr. of Plattsburgh. He was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Lillian J. (Lesperance) Calkins; two sisters, Cora Elizabeth Calkins Rock and Marion Calkins Eldred; and two nephews, David Rock and Bruce Rock. Calling hours will be held Tuesday, April 19, 2011 from 3 to 6 PM at the Hamilton Funeral Home, 124 Clinton Street, Keeseville. Members of the Masonic Lodge will meet at the Hamilton Funeral Home for a 6 PM service. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at 11 AM at the Keeseville United Methodist Church with Rev. Edie A. Poland, pastor, officiating. Committal prayers, military honors, and burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery in Keeseville. Donations in his memory may be made to the AuSable River Lodge, Main Street, Keeseville, NY, 12944. Arrangements are in the care of the Hamilton Funeral Home, 124 Clinton Street, Keeseville. 834-7667