J. Donald "Don" Thome

J. Donald “Don” Thome, 91, of Camillus, passed away peacefully on Sunday at Crouse Hospital.

Born in Baltimore, MD, Don was raised in Queens, before settling in the Syracuse area in 1960. He graduated from St. John’s Preparatory School and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from St. John’s University, where he also was a guard for the St. John’s University basketball team. While at St. John’s, he was invited to try out for the NY Knicks, but ultimately chose to stay in school and pursue his degree. Following his education, he honorably served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958.

Don devoted 15 years of his career to Crouse Hinds before retiring from Penn Traffic after 23 years of dedicated service. A faithful communicant of Holy Family Church, he served as a Eucharistic Minister and found great meaning in his involvement with the parish community. He also volunteered at the Samaritan Center, where he took pride in helping support those in need.

Don enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, especially days spent golfing or casting a fishing line in the St. Lawrence River in Alexandria Bay, where the Lake of the Isles was his favorite spot. He cherished the many summers he and his family shared on Cape Cod, a place filled with laughter, relaxation, and some of his happiest memories. Yet, above all, Don treasured the moments spent with his family. Their love, companionship, and constant support were the true sources of his greatest joy, and he embraced every opportunity to be surrounded by them.

Don will be remembered for his kindness, his steady presence, and the love he shared with all who knew him.

Don’s family would like to express their deep gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff of 5 South at Crouse Hospital for the loving care and support they provided in recent weeks. They also wish to offer a special thank you to Don’s home caregiver, Zikrah, whose compassion, love, and encouragement meant so much.

Don was predeceased by his parents, Louis and Anna Thome; and brother and sister-in-law, Louis and Marjorie Ann.

Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Christine; son, Danny (Heather) of Camillus; daughters, Maria (Philip Wilson) and MaryBeth (Paul) Muster both of Camillus; grandchildren, Joseph, Ella, Mia, Benjamin, and Violet; and several nieces and nephews.

To celebrate Don’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Monday, December 8, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 10 a.m. in Holy Family Church, 127 Chapel Dr., Syracuse.

Don will be laid to rest in Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Samaritan Center, Attn: Mary Beth Frey, 215 N. State St., Syracuse, NY 13203 or to the Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, NY 13208 or to the Holy Family Church Food Pantry, 127 Chapel Dr., Syracuse, NY 13219.

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