Donald P. Ely

Donald Paul Ely, 84, beloved husband, father, teacher, and friend, departed this life peacefully at home on September 24 after a long illness. Born September 3, 1930 in Buffalo to Paul B. and Florence F. Ely, he received his B. A. from SUNY Albany in 1951. Upon graduation, he commenced a long and distinguished career in the field of education, specializing in the area of audiovisual education/instructional technology. He began 40 years of fruitful endeavor as a professor at Syracuse University in 1956, where he was appointed full professor in 1970. He earned his master's degree and Ph.D. there in 1953 and 1961, respectively. Upon retiring from SU in 1995, he taught at Florida State University during the spring semester for several years.

Don traveled the world as a consultant and professor, offering his expertise in Chile, Peru, Indonesia, the Netherlands, and South Africa. Among other honors, he received the Excellence in Teaching Award from his alma mater, Albany, in 1996, where he was acclaimed as "a pioneer" in his field, who progressed with it "from the earliest audiovisuals to increasingly complex computer and satellite applications." He authored numerous books and articles. Among his professional interests was the use of technology in libraries. He attended the White House Conference on Library and Information Services in 1991, and served on the boards of the Dewitt Community Library and the Onondaga County Public Library.

Don married Martha Spencer in 1952, and together they raised four boys. He is dearly remembered as a devoted husband and father whose love knew no bounds. Martha and his sons will always cherish his memory with deep love, appreciation, and gratitude. Don's generous spirit extended beyond his family, as well, to students, colleagues, and everyone he knew. He was unfailingly helpful, positive, and supportive. He was also a master teacher, instructing and inspiring his students with broad knowledge and great enthusiasm.

Don was a member of Pebble Hill Presbyterian Church for many years, and served as an ordained elder there.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Martha; his sons, Mark (Cindy) Ely of The Villages, FL, Scott Ely (Chrissy Leonard) of Carbondale, CO, Christopher (Audrey) Ely of Mattydale; his sister, Joyce Moser of Buffalo; his sister-in-law, Rosemary Ely Little of Buffalo; and several nieces and nephews. His youngest son, John, died in 1969, and his younger brother, David, died in 1970.

A memorial service will be held at Pebble Hill Presbyterian Church on Saturday, October 4 at 4 p.m., with the Rev. Dr. Peter Shidemantle officiating.

Contributions in his memory may be made to the Pebble Hill Church Memorial Fund, 5299 Jamesville Road, DeWitt, NY 13214, or to the Syracuse University Libraries, 222 Waverly Ave., Syracuse, NY 13244.

For condolences please go to www.fairchildmeech.com
Date of Death: September 24, 2014