Obituary of Donald W. Nealon

Hilton - Donald W. Nealon, "Don", was born on July 22, 1946, in Rochester, New York, and passed away on March 1, 2023, at the age of 76. Don was predeceased by his parents, Francis and Arline Nealon; his loving wife of over 52 years, Sue Nealon; his grandson, Jacob Aeckerle; and his brothers-in-law, Joseph and Daniel Sisson. 

He is survived by his children, Jennifer (Don) Kohler, Kristine (Jack Thrasher) Nealon, and Michael Nealon; his grandson, Hunter Kohler; his siblings, Jim (Mary) Nealon, Paul (Claudia) Nealon, Kathy (Jerry) Neu, Bob (Cathy) Nealon, Therese (Kevin) Bishop, Beth (Lou) Mink, and John (Judy) Nealon; his brother-in-law, Steven (Marj) Sisson; his sisters-in-law, Theresa (Mike) Van Strien, Kathleen Sisson, and Laurie (Deb Picciano) Sisson; and several nieces, nephews, and relatives of the Nealon-Foos-Laniak-Vay-Burke-Sisson families. 

Don attended St. John the Evangelist grammar school and graduated from Greece Olympia High School, where he played both baseball and football. Don was a Veteran of the United States Army and served during the Vietnam War.  Upon Don’s return home, he married the love of his life, Sue Nealon, and they later had three children together. He earned his bachelor’s degree from SUNY Empire State College, while working full-time for Eastman Kodak Company. Don worked as a Project Manager for Eastman Kodak Company and retired after 35 years. Don was a devoted family man, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He enjoyed attending the sporting and scholastic events of his children and grandchildren. In his leisure, he also enjoyed boating, fishing, hunting, golfing, and playing guitar. He loved vacationing in both Florida and the Adirondacks with Sue and his family. Don was a devout Catholic, who regularly attended weekly services. Don was a natural born leader, with a work ethic second to none. He readily shared wisdom, advice, and words of encouragement to those he loved. He was an inspiration, role model, and hero to many. He will be deeply missed.

Family and friends are invited to call on Sunday, March 12, 2023 from 2-5 pm at the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, 735 East Avenue, Hilton. Don's Mass of Resurrection will be held on Monday, March 13, 2023 at 9:30 am at St. Lawrence Church, 1000 North Greece Road, Rochester, NY 14626 followed by a private interment in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to the Hamlin VFW, 1739 Lake Rd, Hamlin, NY 14464 in Don's memory. To donate online, click on the charity name. Donations are greatly appreciated.