Mr Donald J. "Don" Dodge

Mr. Donald J. “Don” Dodge, age 79, passed away on Tuesday, June 17, 2014 at Mohawk Valley Health Systems at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with his loving wife by his side. Born in Utica on July 9, 1934, Donald was the son of the late Joseph and Victoria (Ziglen) Dodge. He was raised and educated locally. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, he honorably served his country from 1955-1967. On July 16, 1966 in St. Agnes Church he married the former Margaret M. Mitzler with whom he shared 47 years in a union based on love and traditional values. Don held various positions throughout his working career, but his last employment in the Security Department at the Masonic Care Community of NY was the most memorable and gratifying. Don was a caring and helpful person, often lending a hand to anyone who asked. An affable man, he made alliances easily and was a steadfast friend for life. An outdoorsman by nature, he treasured the time spent at his camp on the St. Lawrence Seaway, fishing at the 1000 Islands, and taking trips on his boat. He tried his hand at games of chance at the casino and enjoyed spending time with his brother-in-law, Al, having coffee and playing the odds at the Off-Track Betting Parlor. Don was a parishioner of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Don is survived by his wife, Margaret; his sister, Dolores Olivier; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws Beverly Canfield, Carol Mitzler, Alphonse Caporale, Joyce and William Dempsey, Sharon Siemers, Suzanne Vassallo, Leo Mitsler, and Robert and Delores Mitzler. The family is grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center, the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, and the Rome Veterans Administration Clinic for all the care and attention rendered to Don. Visitation will be held Friday from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in lieu of flowers may make a donation to the American Heart Association; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Donald’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 11:30 from the funeral home and at 12:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. James Cesta with military honors conferred. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr Donald J. "Don" Dodge

July 9, 1934 - June 17, 2014