Neal C. Patraw

MASSENA – Neal C. Patraw, 97, formerly of Baxterville, peacefully passed away Monday evening, November 10, 2025 at his home.
Neal was born September 6, 1928 in Massena, the son of the late Deforest C. and Audrey (Welch) Patraw. He was raised in Massena, where he attended schools. On February 17, 1948, he married Lois Bordeaux in the rectory of Sacred Heart Church. They were blessed with 5 children and 37 years of marriage before her death on September 8, 1985. He later married Gloria Clark Dunkleberg at the Lighthouse Restaurant in Massena on June 20, 1987. She predeceased him on April 10, 2018.
Neal worked for the railroad for 13 years prior to working for the St. Lawrence Seaway Project. He continued his working career at General Motors, where he retired as a forklift operator in 1987 after 27 years of service. Neal was an avid NY Yankees fan and enjoyed wintering in Ocala, Florida for over 20 years. He also enjoyed golfing, camping, hunting, woodworking, bowling, a good card game, dancing, and trading cars.
Neal is survived by his children, James Patraw of New Mexico, Suzan (Blair) Hopkins of Florida, Cindy Jean (Mike) Picazio-Pare of Connecticut, and Teri Chapin (Robbie Phillips) of Massena; his stepchildren, William (Diane) Dunkleberg of Massena, Barbara (Arthur) Borey of Massena, and Daniel (Angel) Dunkleberg of Waddington; 7 grandchildren and 7 step grandchildren; several great and step great grandchildren; and many great-great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents and wives, he was predeceased by a son, Randy Patraw in 2020 and a sister, Earldeen Patraw in infancy.
A graveside service will be held Monday, November 17th, 1:00 PM at Calvary Cemetery Chapel. There will be no prior calling hours. A
In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to be made in his memory to Massena Humane Society.
Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Donaldson Funeral Home, Massena where friends may share memories and offer condolences online at www.donaldsonfh.com.