Donald F. Havens, 88, of Hamilton, NY, passed peacefully into Glory on January 2, 2021 at Lutheran Care surrounded by the love of his family.
He was born May 1, 1932 in Syracuse, the son of Francis and Helen Slentz Havens and was a graduate of Edmeston Central School. He married the love of his life, Barbara Talbot in West Edmeston on January 21, 1956. Don served in the U.S. Army in the South Pacific and he and Barbara began housekeeping in Hawaii. After being honorably discharged from the Army, he worked at Western Electric in Syracuse. Then they moved to West Edmeston where he operated a dairy farm and served as a delegate to Eastern Milk Producers in Syracuse.
Don served as Brookfield Town Justice for many years and is a past President of the Madison County Magistrates Association. He worked at the Madison County Highway Department until his retirement in 1996.
Don was an active member of the Cornerstone Baptist Church in Hamilton and a member of the Hamilton American Legion Post #375, He had served in local churches as Deacon and Trustee. He and Barbara had volunteered a several Bible camps. Together, they were coordinators for Operation Christmas Child for many years. He and Barbara enjoyed traveling and visited most of the United States, especially enjoying Alaska. They also visited Nova Scotia, England, France, Luxembourg, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Brazil.
Don is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; three sons, Terrence (Christina) Havens of West Winfield; Jayme Havens and Andrew (Connie) Havens of Oklahoma City; four grandchildren, Andrew (Jean) Havens and Rebekah (Nathan) Rittenburg of West Winfield; Joshua and Brandon Havens of Oklahoma City; and six great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his sister and brothers-in-law, Laurel and Arthur Holben and Peter Talbot.
Don was happiest when surrounded by all his family and he cherished each one. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Our beloved “Pops” and his love and care for all of us will be greatly missed.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private family service will be held.
Contributions in his memory may be made to Camp Anavah, 61 South St., West Winfield, NY 13491.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Burgess & Tedesco Funeral Home, 25 Broad St., Hamilton, NY.