Obituary of Donald V. McWilliams

Donald V. McWilliams

Don McWilliams, was born April 29, 1924 , to John and Carrie McWilliams of Stanley, New York, and remained a lifetime resident of the area.

He was a building contractor of homes and commercial buildings in the 1950s and 1960s. He later founded AL-CO Properties, a Canandaigua realty firm.

Don was a member of the Canandaigua Chamber of Commerce, and for many years served as president of the Ontario and Yates Board of Realtors. Don was a very active volunteer: acting as a state officer of the American Cancer Society, and the March of Dimes for several years. He was voted Kiwanis member of the year, a Paul Harris Fellow in Red Jacket Rotary and Elk of the year. Don was an enthusiastic member of the Hopewell Historical Society and served as a trustee of the Chapin Methodist Church.

Don loved gardening, American history, and classic Ford trucks. His major passion was running. He held national age-group records in the 20-50 kilometer distances.

He promoted and directed several races, most notably the Jean Mitchell Memorial Race, which benefitted The American Cancer Society.

Don remained active and independent in his later years. He enjoyed walking outdoors and kayaking just days before his death. He passed away peacefully with his sons by his side on July 10, 2018.

Don was predeceased by Katherine Dimmitt of Elmhurst, Illinois, who he married in 1953, and Emily Skellet Bauer of Hopewell, New York who he married in 1995. He is survived by his

sons Donald (Diane) of Canandaigua New York and Paul (Joan) of Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, and step-son Rick Bauer (Marcia Rajca) of Hopewell, and three grandchildren.

He was a pillar of the community, and will be greatly missed by many.

Don was a donor to the Anatomical Gift Program at the University of Rochester. Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society.