POTSDAM – Mr. Donald E. Burlingame, Sr., 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Potsdam surrounded by his family on Tuesday afternoon, May 9, 2017.
Don was born October 27, 1930 in Cuba, New York, the son of Edwin and Mary (Ueblhear) Burlingame of Hinsdale, New York and is survived by his wife, Peggy; his children, Donald Burlingame, Jr (from a previous marriage with Jeanette Foster) and his wife, Dee; Alicia Newcombe and husband, Aaron; Douglass Cooper; grandchildren, Krystal Burlingame; Connor and Carter Newcombe; Rylee, Payton, and Madyson Cooper; and a great grandchild, Emica Burlingame. Don is also survived by his sister, Deanna Hitchcock; brothers, Richard and Darryl Burlingame; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, Don was predeceased by a sister, Doris Smith; a brother, David Burlingame; a daughter, Janis Burlingame; and a granddaughter, Breana Rae Cooper.
Don was a loving husband and father who loved to laugh, work hard, and play hard. He loved the woods, being outdoors, the family camp, animals, playing cards and sports. Don graduated from Cuba High School in New York and then went into the United States Marine Corps. After his discharge, he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree at SUNY Cortland, a Masters Degree in Mathematics, and a Doctorate Degree in Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. Don briefly taught at Washington University before moving to Potsdam in 1969 when he started teaching at Clarkson University. His short time at Clarkson was followed by his time at SUNY Potsdam, where he remained until his retirement in 1996. Don remained active at home and in the community up until he was struck by illness in September 2016.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held at his home on June 17, 2017 at a time to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may consider donations to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, Potsdam Animal Shelter, or the North Country Public Radio.
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