Obituary of Donald J. Fanniff

Donald J. Fanniff, 66, passed away peacefully after a long illness on Saturday, December 10, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. Born and educated in Cohoes, he was the son of the late Donald and Helen Flavin Fanniff and the loving husband of 46 years to Denise Gadoua Fanniff. Don retired from the Watervliet Arsenal and the Shenendehowa School District. An avid outdoorsman, Don enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening. He is a member of the Clifton Park Sportsman Club and a former member of the Cohoes Kinights of Columbus Council #192. In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by his cherished children Eric (Jane) Fanniff of Halfmoon and Deven (Bryan) VanBramer of Cohoes. Nothing made Don happier than the time spent with his adored grandchildren, Tyler Leo Fanniff, Emily Elizabeth Fanniff, Hailey Shea VanBramer and Aaron VanBramer. He was predeceased by his brother Thomas J. Fanniff. Survivors also include his sister Barbara (Victor) Bourgeois of Waterford, Sisters-in-law, Sheila Fanniff of Cohoes and Yvonne (Stephen) Dobis of Cohoes and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Also survived by Brian and Luca Fanniff. Funeral Wednesday 11:00 at the Church of the Holy Trinity, Cohoes where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Relatives and friends may call at the DUFRESNE FUNERAL HOME,Inc. 216 Columbia Street, Cohoes on Tuesday from 4 to 7pm. Those who wish to remember Don in a special way may make a donation in his memory to JDRF Northeastern NY Chapter, 950 New Loudon Road, Suite 330, Latham, NY 12110.