LAKE KATRINE — John E. Donaldson, whom his family describes as generous and compassionate, was sensitive to needs of the less fortunate. Formerly of Berne, Mr. Donaldson died on Monday, Nov. 19, 2018, after a short illness. He was 54.

Born in Albany County on May 22, 1964, he was the youngest son of the late Virginia A. Quenneville and William R. Donaldson. He attended Voorheesville Central Schools and participated in the vocational–technical program for auto-body repair. For many years, he was employed by Loucks Body & Fender Works of Delmar.

Later on, Mr. Donaldson worked in custodial services for New York State; Beverwyck Terrace; and Warren, Washington & Albany Counties ARC.  More recently, he resided at the Northeast Center for Rehabilitation and Traumatic Brain Injury.

“Born with medical issues, Mr. Donaldson never let this interfere with his love for action,” his family wrote in a tribute. “He followed the lead of his two older brothers, whom he loved and respected, advancing quickly from tricycles and bicycles to dirt bikes and four-wheelers.

“Through her nurturing, his mom taught him to be caring and compassionate. He learned many things from his dad, especially about all things mechanical. By the age of 12, he was learning how to build dune buggies; with dad and brother, he displayed their work in the 1976 bicentennial Voorheesville parade.

“John gives to his family and friends his many beautiful qualities, qualities that offer us the opportunity to learn valuable lessons as we continue our journey of life. John overcame adversity through his sense of humor. He brought joy to others through this very special gift.

“A very generous, caring and compassionate individual, John was always sensitive to the needs of the disabled and less fortunate. Through his work at WWA-ARC and his time at the Northeast Center, he always found time to help others by his thoughtful actions and kind words.

“John had a deep love of family and for children. He lovingly welcomed his stepmom into his life; they would come to share a very special relationship. His greatest joy came with the birth of his son, John, Jr. As father taught son some of the more difficult realities of life and lessons to be learned, they formed a deep bond. They shared some common interests, including cars, dirt bikes, and fishing.

“His next greatest joy came as his family circle grew to include Amanda and her family, and especially her son, Braydon. He now had a grandson; he was a grandpa.

John’s family is most appreciative to the staff and residents at the Northeast Center for the love, support, and encouragement given to him. The family is also most grateful to St. Peter’s Hospital for both their medical expertise and their compassion. They are equally thankful to the spiritual and palliative care teams for all their support and guidance.”

A rite of Christian burial will take place at St. Matthew’s Roman Catholic Church in Voorheesville, on Tuesday, Nov. 27, at 10 a.m. Interment at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery will follow.

Contributions may be made to the Hilltown Community Resource Center, State Route 143, Westerlo, NY 12193.