Donald Needham, age 65, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, January 10, 2017 surrounded by his family.   

He was born on June 13, 1951 in Syracuse, New York, the son of the late Robert Needham and Jeanette Storer Needham. 

Don grew up in Syracuse and was a 1969 graduate of Cicero-North Syracuse High School.  He continued his education at Morrisville State College and graduated with an Associate’s Degree. 

Don was a Sales representative for Tenneco Automotive and then was a part of the NAPA Sales team.  Don was a very active member with the Saratoga Youth Hockey Assoc., the Wilton GOP, and the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge.  He truly enjoyed the time he spent with his family and friends, drifting on the boat, taking care of the house, and helping others.  He had a giant personality and a beautiful gentle spirit. He was brilliant, articulate, and had an uncanny sense of direction. He was funny, sensitive, loyal, and generous.   Don was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be greatly missed. 

Don is survived by his loving wife Shirley who had a fun filled life together; son, David Needham (Kristin), Robert Needham, step-son, Matthew Liuzzi (Jennifer); daughters, Paula Needham-Schewe (Clark), step-daughter, Marie Liuzzi (Timothy); brother-in-law’s, Thomas Lenseth (Marianne), Peter Lenseth (Susan), James Lenseth (Lisa); sister, Barbara Koppe; sister-in-law’s, Catherine Rahon (Ted), Margaret Ranalli (Michael); nine grandchildren and many extended family and friends.  

He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Diane Kratz.

A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Friday, January 20, 2017 at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave. (Rte 9 and/or Marion Ave.), Saratoga Springs, NY. 

Calling hours will be held from 9:30 am to 10:45 am prior to the service at the Funeral Home.  Family and friends are welcome to join the family for further fellowship following the service at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge 161, 1 Elks Ln, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. 

In lieu of flowers donations in honor of Donald can be made to the American Cancer Society or Hospice of Union County, 700 W. Roosevelt Blvd., Monroe, NC 28110

If you wish to express your online condolences or view the Obituary, please visit our website at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com

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