Obituary of Donald Carl Taylor

Donald Taylor, 64, of Cortland NY, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer at his summer home on Owasco Lake with family by his side. He was born December 14, 1944 in Binghamton NY, the son of the late R. Carl & Eva Belle Tingley Taylor. Donald was raised and educated in Marathon, graduating from Marathon High School in 1963. He then went onto serve his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After his military service, he continued his education graduating from Cortland State University, receiving a bachelor's degree in History. Donald spent his teaching career at OCM BOCES as a special education teacher retiring in 2005. Donald first love was to his family, especially spending time with his grandchildren. In his spare time he enjoyed golfing and boating. He is survived by his wife of 43 yrs. Margaret Taylor of Cortland, son Aaron (Karen) Taylor of Long Island NY, daughter Karla (Tim) Tracy of McLean NY, seven grandchildren Stephanie (Wes) Emerson, Katie, Justin, and Alexandra Tracy, Jake, Macrae, and Nicholas Taylor, great grandson Brian Emerson, nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be Thursday evening 4-7 pm at Wright-Beard Funeral Home Inc., 9 Lincoln Ave Cortland NY. A memorial service will be held Friday 10 am at the Wright-Beard Funeral Home with Sister Harriet Hamilton presiding. Burial will follow at the Cortland Rural Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to: Tribute Program, St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN, 38105-1942. To offer condolences online, visit www.wright-beard.com I am not sure what to say other than I will miss Uncle Don. He meant a lot to me growing up. I will see you on Thursday. Dan THE PASSING OF DONALD. HE WILL BE MISSED AT THE LAKE. YOUR NEIGHBORS JOE AND PAT COTTAGE NUMBER 40 (THE ORIGINAL NUMBER). Frequently Don and i would have the same thought and a gleem in our eyes - then Margret would scold us - but we didn't say anything. Have many fond memories of Don and family to cherish. Wish we could have golfed more ..........Thanks for Holden Beach experiences jp n gretch From John Piazza Karla, Margaret, Aaron and family: I am sorry for your loss. Please know that I am thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. Heather (Blythe) Galvin I had wanted to attend Don's funeral today, but was unable to do so. I want to let you know how sorry I am. Don and I worked together for several years when he arranged/supervised work programs for Maria DeRado's students at Cortland High School. At the time, I was the Cortland CSE Chair. Don was always concerned about his students and did all he could to see that they had positive experiences. When crises came up, he made sure to be with affected students and staff. He was a warm and friendly co-worker. I shall treasure our friendship. With sympathy, Jo Ann Wickman Margaret, with great regret we learned of Don's death. We are glad to have known him. The lamp he made for us so many years ago can be seen from the highway through our front window. We pray for grace to guide you and your family; may your memories be blessed...Cathy & Bill Margret,Aaron,Tracy; I am very sorry for your loss. Don was a collegue and a good friend. He came late to special education and reminded his peers of our original enthusiasm for the job. We should have played more golf and tennis. The times we had together at work and play I will always cherish. Paul Hackett