Donald James DeLong

Donald James DeLong, 83, of South Schodack, NY, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2026. He was born in Charlottesville, NY, and moved to Ghent, NY as a young boy. He was the son of Bruce DeLong and Carrie (Colliton) DeLong. 

He graduated from Chatham Central High School in 1961 and started working in the contracting/remodeling trade. He married his soulmate, Leona Delamater, in 1967 and moved to Schodack, where they built their family and businesses. Donald continued to build his career around the contracting and plumbing trades. He owned and operated his own contracting business for 30+ years and later worked in the plumbing field at which time he retired from Long Oil (Albany, NY). 

Outside of work, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He could fix or build anything, was a pretty good cook, an avid hunter, fisherman, golfer, and lover of animals. He enjoyed spending time with his family and sharing his hobbies/knowledge with his family, especially with his great-grandsons. 

He is survived by his wife, Leona (Delamater) DeLong, his daughters, Donna DeLong Colomey, Mia DeLong Myszkowski (Keith Myszkowski), and Kristie DeLong; his granddaughter, Carrie Whiteman (Mark Whiteman); great-grandsons, Mason Whiteman and Connor Whiteman, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Bruce and Carrie DeLong, his brothers, Bruce DeLong and George DeLong and a grandson, Robert Stickles.  

At Donald's request, there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local Humane Society or favorite animal rescue group. Donald will be remembered as a beloved father and family man and will be deeply missed.