Donald A. O'Connell, 78, of Chatham, NY, passed away Thursday, August 14, 2025 at his home with his love by his side. He was a 1965 graduate of Chatham High School and a graduate of Columbia Greene Community College with an Associates Degree. He was a member of the American Legion Post 42, Chatham, NY and a 50 year member of S,W, Smith Hook and Ladder, Chatham Fire Company.

Don joined the Navy May 12, 1966 for a 3 year term with two tours in Vietnam. While in the Navy he received four medals: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three bronze stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with device and Meritorious Unit Commendation.

He loved riding his Harley and going on motorcycle runs with different organizations and friends. He was an avid hunter and was devoted to the Chatham Fire Company and enjoyed marching in their parades. He also enjoyed friendly get togethers in his yard on Friday and Saturday nights. One of his favorite sayings was "You have to laugh and have fun every day because life is short". He definitely lived up to that saying.

He was predeceased by his mother Helen and father Thomas O'Connell and his son Donald T O'Connell. He is survived by Mary Sheline, his love for the past 11 years, his sister Sharon Pitts, brother Thomas O'Connell (wife Betsy), sister Jane Selves (husband Norman) and sister Colleen Jensen (husband Sid). He is also survived by Mary's four grandchildren that he loved as his own and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Friday, August 22, 2025 from 10 am - 12 noon at the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, 25 Railroad Ave., Chatham, NY. Burial will follow at St. James Cemetery, Ghent, NY.

In lieu of flowers contributions in Donnie's name may be made to the Chatham Fire Department or to the Columbia County Veterans Service Agency.