Donald O. Easterly

November 12, 2010, two days short of his 75th birthday Don died peacefully at home after a long, courageous battle with Parkinson's disease. Born November 14, 1935 in Gloversville, NY. He was predeceased by his son William Easterly. Don is survived by his wife of 52 years, Barbara Tyler Easterly; son, Robert (Charlene) Easterly; daughter, Lynda (Gilbert) Hale; daughter-in-law, Sharon Easterly; sister, Joyce (Paul) Adamec; brother, John Easterly; sister-in-law, Judy (Bruce) Hurlbutt; six grandchildren; three great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.
A 1959 RIT mechanical engineering graduate, Don worked at Eastman Kodak Co. for 31 years. As manager of the Consumer Products Design group he developed super 8 movie systems, auto focus instant cameras, 2nd generation disc cameras, Fisher Price cameras and managed Kodak's re-entry into 35mm. After retiring, Don invented the Thermo Thumb, a thermostatically controlled snowmobile thumb warmer for Polaris Industries. An avid snowmobiler, Don was one of the founding members and former president of the Hill and Gully Snowmobile Riders Club. Along with snowmobiling, Dons hobbies included photography and model trains.
The family would like to thank Service for Seniors for their care in his home, especially his caregivers Ellen, Mary & Leslie. A special thanks to Sue Cannon and Jo Kenyon for their help, Dr. Kevin Bigland and Dr. Timothy Quill, as well as the continual support of his family and friends.
Friends are invited to attend a celebration of life service on SATURDAY, November 20th at 1 PM at the Henrietta United Church of Christ, 1400 Lehigh Station Road, Henrietta. A private family burial is planned. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Henrietta United Church of Christ Building Fund or Lifetime Care in his memory. For directions or to leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit: