Donald C. Marcellus

Donald C. Marcellus, 98, of Camillus, was called home on Wednesday, surrounded by family. A lifetime resident of the Syracuse area, he was a proud graduate of Fayetteville High School and Syracuse University College of Engineering. Don was a U.S. Army veteran who received a bronze star medal for his service in WWII. As a young man, he played in baseball and hockey leagues. Don married Carol Hixson and raised their family near Drumlins Country Club where he enjoyed playing golf, spending valued time with friends, and even making three hole-in-ones. A fierce competitor, he played in the Herald American and many member-guest golf tournaments over the years. Along with being an avid SU fan, Don was a golfer and bowler. An active member of First Baptist Church of Syracuse for over 50 years, he served as a trustee chairman and member of the prayer group, orchestrated the sale of the downtown site, and helped build the present church on East Seneca Turnpike. Some of Don’s many interests included freemasonry, woodworking, gardening, baking (the best apple pies!), daily exercise, politics, and sports, especially SU lacrosse. He loved watching his grandchildren and son-in-law play and coach lacrosse. Don and Carol cherished their summers on Otisco Lake with their family.

Don had many jobs, but his favorite was working well into his 80s for Ianuzi Land Surveying. He was a very humble and disciplined man, well known for helping others, of which his family will forever be proud.

Don was predeceased in 2015 by his wife of 65 years, the former Carol Hixson; parents, Clyde Marcellus and Eva Marcellus-Mills; brother, Clyde; and son, Donald H.

Don’s incredible legacy includes daughters, Mary (Tom) Lynch of Alpharetta, GA, Kristen (Tim) O'Hara and Laurie (Kevin) Donahue, both of Camillus; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends may call on Friday, December 2 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 3 at 11 a.m. in the First Baptist Church of Syracuse, 5833 E. Seneca Tpke., Jamesville. Following the services, Don will be laid to rest in Fayetteville Cemetery, Fayetteville.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Don’s memory to one’s favorite charity.