Donald Hall Obituary
A lifelong learner who loved sharing knowledge with others. From performing magic shows growing up in Columbus, OH to teaching Mercury and Apollo astronauts celestial navigation at UNC's Morehead Planetarium, Don's curious mind drove his career. He spent decades leading the Strasenburgh Planetarium, blending creativity with science education. A passionate collector of Depression glass and American art pottery, he continued teaching in retirement as a tour guide at Mt. Hope Cemetery and a lecturer on local history and decorative arts.
Survived by daughter, Elizabeth Hall; son-in-law, Andy Anderson; grandson, Spencer Baty; step-grandchildren, Colin and Simon Anderson; niece, Suzanne Hall; nephew, Scott Hall; friend, Chris Grooms.
The family wishes to thank the Friendly Home for their compassionate care. No service is planned at Don's request; future interment at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Gifts of remembrance are welcome at Rochester Area Community Foundation: www.racf.org/donhall
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Ken Wilson
Earlier today
Don was one of my mentors early in my planetarium career. He helped me get my first full time planetarium position and was always there to provide guidance and advice. He was a pioneer in the world of planetariums. His contributions to the field will be long remembered. Rest in peace, Captain Science!
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Alan Shwachman
Yesterday
Don, rest in piece. Alan Shwachman
John Wharton
December 4, 2025
Don´s impact on his profession and his community was immeasurable. I was privileged to have been one of the nearly two dozen aspiring planetarians to have gone through the Strasenburgh intern program and benefited from his mentorship. And friendship. A truly interesting, and interested, guy. We´re better from having known him.
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2305 Monroe Avenue, Rochester, NY 14618
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