Donald R. Avery

Donald R. Avery Chili: Friday, May 10, 2024, at age 97. Predeceased by his wife of 70 years, Mary Jane. Survived by his sons, Ken (Corinne) and Robert (April); grandchildren, Timothy (Bunny) Avery, Jennica (Tyler) Basler and Matthew Avery; great-grandchildren, Graham, Colson, Beckham, and Molly Jane; nephews Brock Avery, Jeffrey Mowers, Thomas Mowers, and many dear friends. Donald was born in his parents’ home on Buffalo Road, Gates Center, on August 11, 1926. He attended Thomas Edison grade school two doors down the road, graduated from Spencerport High School in June 1944 and enlisted in the Army at the age of 17. His unit boarded the RMS Queen Elizabeth in New York Harbor on Palm Sunday 1945, as WWII was winding down. He served with the 280th Field Artillery Battalion, part of the 9th Army. In December 2022 he recounted his early life and military service in My Formational Journey. After the war, he attended Clarkson University and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering. He was employed by the Erie Railroad, Boeing, Rochester Products (a division of General Motors), two consulting firms and Monroe County before starting Avery Engineering and Land Surveying when he was 60 years old, where he worked for 20 years before retiring. During his military service overseas, he came to a personal faith in Jesus and lived a devout and humble Christian life. He served in various church leadership roles, taught Sunday School, and visited the sick and elderly. He was a lifelong learner, with many interests including gardening, reading, golf, and travel. He was always more interested in hearing from others - his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends, and colleagues - than speaking about himself. His was a well-lived life, an example to many. Family and friends may call at the Leo M. Bean and Sons Funeral Home on Saturday, May 25th from 10am-12pm. Funeral service to follow calling hours at 12pm at the funeral home. Interment with Military Honors at Grove Place Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Chili American Legion Post 1830, 450 Scottsville-Chili Rd. Scottsville, NY 14546, or the Episcopal Church Home, 505 Mt. Hope Ave. Rochester, NY 14620.

Donald R. Avery

August 11, 1926 - May 10, 2024