Donald G. Chesebro's Obituary
Donald G. Chesebro
Donald G. Chesebro, 73, of Hiawassee, GA, passed away Jan. 10, 2013, following a brief illness.
He is survived by Ruthanne, his soulmate and wife of 30 years. Don is also survived by two daughters, Robin Rielly and husband, Chris, granddaughter, Kate, Colchester, VT; Rebecca Nalevanko and husband, John, Canton, MI; stepdaughter, Chanda Woodside, and husband, Jon, granddaughter, Hayden of St. Augustine, FL; sister, Allison Bennett and husband, Bill, Albany, NY; niece, Susan Scofield and husband, Bob; nephew, Keith Bennett and wife, Sue; and niece Mary Lou Terko. Don was predeceased by his stepson, Brad Herala, of Orlando, FL, Dec. 8, 2012.
Don graduated from RPI, Troy, NY, in 1961 and joined General Electric. In 1965 he joined IBM in Poughkeepsie, NY and later that year moved to IBM, Essex Junction, VT, where he continued working until he retired in 1995. Don was instrumental in the development of new technology that helped carve a new path for IBM. He was very humble about his career accomplishments, and yet, his colleagues recognized his many contributions.
Anyone who knew Don would tell you in a heartbeat that he was one of the most sincere, gentle, considerate and ethical people they had ever known and always had a smile. Don had many interests; he was an accomplished sailor, loved the outdoors and was active in a hiking club, built houses for Habitat, along with designing and building three homes of his own. He was an avid reader, excellent cook and loved traveling. Don's zest for life and the curiosity of all things around him will be part of his legacy. His true legacy is the one he leaves for his family--his wisdom and love to his children, and the great love and respect which he and Ruthanne shared.
There will be a Memorial Service at The Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Hayesville, NC, where he and Ruthanne were blessed to have found loving and caring friends.
There will also be a Memorial Service in Burlington, VT in early summer. Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Donald G. Chesebro.
All arrangements are under the care of Heritage Funeral & Cremation Service, Port Orange, FL.
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