Donald E. Partridge, 84, longtime resident of Watertown, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 17, 2017.
Calling hours will be held Noon to 2 p.m. Monday, May 22 at the Hart & Bruce Funeral Home, 117 North Massey Street, Watertown.
The funeral services will follow at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with the burial immediately following at the Sanford Corners Cemetery in Calcium.
Don was born on December 27, 1932 in the Town of Macomb, son of Lawrence and Louava Fleming Partridge Hill. He met Eleanor M. Wischoff of Watertown at the Carriage House where they both worked. The couple married in September of 1965.
Don was trained in the heating industry. He opened Flame Heating, a heating company, which he operated with his brother Charles, for many years. Don was proud of his reputation for providing excellent service, and came to know his customers very well. He ensured they had heat when needed, often answering calls in the middle of the night. He was a hardworking and generous man with a kind heart. On more than one occasion, Don assisted families in need at his own expense, providing parts and repairs so they would be safe and warm. Don also worked for Agway and retired in 1995 after 25 years of service.
Don loved cards, often playing marathon games for hours with his family. He enjoyed fishing for bullheads and salmon in the Black River. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR and pro wrestling. Don had a wonderful laugh that made everyone around him smile. His family will remember him for his big hugs and willingness to help in any way, at any time.
Among his survivors are three daughters, Dawn Merva of Columbus, Georgia, Brenda L. Newman (Stephen) of Watertown, Sherry D Delaney (David) of Watertown, and two sons, Donald E. “Sonny” Partridge, of Tampa, Florida and Randy L. (Kimberly)Partridge of Ballston Lake, New York. Don is also survived by three brothers, Robert Partridge of Calcium, Charles (Donna) and Dalton Partridge, both of Clayton; 10 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.
Don was predeceased by his wife Eleanor, who passed in 1995, a daughter Linda Kay died at birth, his brothers Lawrence “Junior” and Frederick Partridge, his son-in-law, Major Michael T. Merva and granddaughter Ashley Merva.
The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.
Online condolences may be made at www.hartandbrucefh.com