Obituary of Donald Slate

Donald M. Slate passed away suddenly at home on Sunday evening, November 3rd. Donald was born in Herman, NY on March 2, 1930. He was the beloved father of Anna E. Gargiulo and cherished husband of the late Gretchen Slate who passed September 23rd of this year. Donald served in the United States Army during the Korean War era 1953 and 54. Donald was a graduate of St. Lawrence University, in Canton, NY and later pursued his graduate studies in Education at Union College in Schenectady, NY. Donald taught biology for more than 30 years in both Shenendahowa school districts as well as Mechanicsville school districts, He was fondly known to many as "Prof. Slate". Donald was very passionate about education and found great joy and inspiration in his students. Don loved to travel to Maine each spring with wife Gretchen, he also loved spending time with family and friends at their cottage in Lake George. He had a passion for books, enjoyed manicuring his homes, going to the diner and most of all just spending time with his beloved wife of 52 years, Gretchen. Donald could always be seen with his companion dog next to his side pruning a shrub, planting a tree, or just reading a favorite novel or newspaper. He was a very thoughtful, truthful and spiritual man with a strong faith in God. He cherished his family and close friends. Survivors include his dear daughter Anna E. Gargiulo, loved son-in-law Rick, granddaughter Grace Luciana, and his dog Molly. Donald is also survived by a sister-in-law, brother-in-law and wife as well as several nieces and nephew. Donald will be forever in our hearts. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, November 7 at 11:00AM at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road with Rev. Kenneth Heckeler officiating. Relatives and friends may also call at the funeral home on Wednesday, September 6 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.. Interment will take place at Gerald B.H. Solomon National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd. Schuylerville, NY. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Saratoga National Cemetery Support Committee. Expressions of sympathy are directed to www.glenvillefuneralhome.com.