Donald W. Payne
of Dryden, NY passed away on March 11, 2011. Born in Ithaca, NY on August 8, 1931, Don spent his childhood in Ithaca and attended Cornell University where he earned a B.S. Degree in Agricultural Engineering in 1955. It was also at Cornell that he met his future wife, Aiden Ehlert, whom he married on June 11, 1956. While at Cornell he was Assistant Drum Major for the Marching Band and a member of the Concert Band. His love of music would continue through his life whether it be playing instruments, singing or attending concerts.
Don had a 32-year career at New York State Electric and Gas, retiring in 1988. Through his job he was moved to Endicott, Auburn, Binghamton and Liberty before finally settling in Dryden in 1971. He was very active in volunteer activities through church and civic organizations. While in Dryden, he was a Board member and Past President of Willowbrook Manor as well as a long time member and Past President of Dryden Kiwanis.
Don and Aiden travelled extensively, driving across the country many times and twice to Alaska. Trips also included Hawaii, many of the Canadian Provinces and Europe. After retirement, their winters were spent in Borrego Springs, California where they formed many lasting friendships.
Survivors include his loving wife of 54 years, Aiden Ehlert Payne of Dryden; his sons, Donald W., Jr., William H.(Lisa) and Thomas J.(Annette), his two grandchildren, Allison Keiko and Benjamin Parsons, a brother, Douglass and several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Parsons George and Annie Douglass Payne.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, April 9, 2011 at The First Presbyterian Church of Dryden, 6 North Street, Dryden, NY. Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 PM, April 8th at Perkins Funeral Home, 55 West Main Street, Dryden, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider memorial donations to the Southworth Library, P.O. Box 45, Dryden, NY 13053 or the First Presbyterian Church of Dryden, P.O. Box 42, Dryden, NY 13053. www.perkinsfuneralhome.com
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