Donald J. Beach

Donald J. Beach, 87, of Gloversville, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, December 9, 2022, surrounded by his family that loved and cherished him so much. He was born in Malone on March 22, 1935, a son of Harry and Blanche Benware Beach and attended local schools. At age twelve, Donald began helping at his family’s logging business. In 1957, he enlisted in the US Army and was stationed in Schweinfurt, Germany, where he drove tank and also boxed. He was honorably discharged in 1963 at rank E-5 Sergeant. In 1957, Don met and later married Dorothy LeBlanc. They moved to Mayfield in 1973 and raised their family. Mr. Beach drove tractor trailer for Coleco Industries for over twenty-five years and also served as Shop Steward for the Teamsters Union 294. Later, he drove for Dwyer Leasing until retiring. Don loved NASCAR and had a passion for bowling. He bowled with several local teams for many years. In 2019, Don was inducted in the Fulton County Bowling Hall of Fame which was a well-deserved accomplishment. Don was a loyal Ford man and this August he purchased his brand new 2022 Ford Ranger, which he was so proud of. He loved showing her off and boasting about her. Most of all, Don loved his family. He enjoyed family dinners and gatherings and being involved with his grandchildren’s events. His grandchildren were the apples of his eye, and he was so proud of them. His face lit up anytime they were around. Don was the patriarch of the Beach family and will live on in the hearts of each of us and the stories we share. He was the example of a true gentleman and kind soul with a sharp wit. We were all blessed to have him in our lives. In addition to his parents and his wife, Don was predeceased by four sisters, Helen Reid, Phyllis Lawrence, Joan Roscoe, and Nancy Sherwin; and a brother, Allen Beach. Survivors include four daughters, Colleen (Ronald) Blood, Kimberly (Donald) LaRowe, and Darlene (Andrew) Bornt, all of Gloversville, and Doreen (Stephen) Kelly of Amsterdam; a son Donald Shanahan of Broadalbin; a sister, Jean (Allen) Warner of Bloomington, IN; three brothers, Harry (Jenny) Beach, Jr., Robert (Diane) Beach, and Gordon (Jenny) Beach, all of Malone; a sister-in-law and lifelong friend, Louise Beach of Malone; thirteen grandchildren, Derek and Lisa Hakes, Jessica and Sabrina Glode, Alyssa McQuiston, Kelsey Burton, Nicholas La Rowe, Stephen Jr. and Joseph Kelly, Angelina and Antonio Mannino, Landon Bornt, and Taylor Miller; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Cremation was performed at Park View Crematorium, Schenectady. Calling hours will be held on Saturday from noon – 2pm at the Robert M. Halgas Funeral Home, Inc., 111 County Highway 106 (Corner of Route 29 & Black Street), Johnstown, followed by a memorial service at 2pm at the funeral home with Rev. Dr. R.W. Williams, officiating. Military honors will be rendered after the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice, in care of the funeral home. The family would like to express sincere gratitude to Mountain Valley Hospice. Because of their guidance, we were able to care for Donald at home, where he wanted to be.

Donald J. Beach

March 22, 1935 - December 9, 2022

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Donald J. Beach

March 22, 1935 - December 9, 2022

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

365 Days of Grief Support