Donald J. Marr

Donald Joseph Marr was born in Albany, New York on December 13, 1958. He passed peacefully, surrounded by family on the morning of March 21, 2024.

As a young person, Don was a jokester and cartoonist, studying martial arts and boxing.

Don had an impressive military career, enlisting in the Navy at 17 years old and serving for 4 years. Later, he served in the Army National Guard, quickly earning the rank of Sergeant. He bravely served throughout the Gulf War, taking part in rescue missions during the Iranian hostage crisis. He was especially proud of successfully leading a platoon through the "Climb to Glory" as the sergeant of the 10th Mountain Division (light infantry) at Fort Drum in 1986. The division was the only one of its size in the US military to receive specialized training for fighting in mountainous conditions. Sergeant Marr was awarded two honorable discharges from both the Navy and Army.
Don valued education; he was an avid reader and number lover. He was Valedictorian of Sienna College and later earned a Master's in Business. Don used his deep intellect and strong leadership in various professional roles: Vice President of Key Corporation in Albany, CFO of several start-up companies, and an independent financial advisor.

Don's go-with-the-flow energy and silly antics made him a kid-magnet. He was the kind of guy you would find sitting at the kid's table during holiday dinners, making everyone laugh.

Don was most proud of being Dad and Poppy. He raised two daughters, DiAnna and Betsy. He would brag about them any chance he could get: talking about DiAnna's beautiful photography and her smart business sense, sharing about Betsy's passion for teaching and writing. Don loved spending time with his granddaughters, Clementine and Rue, going on adventures to the diner, the lake, or just cuddling on the couch with some sorbet.
Don loved nature and music, spending his time swimming in lakes and playing harmonica around the campfire while traveling, camping, and attending blues music festivals. He always had a story to tell and a smile to share.


Don is survived by a legacy of many family and friends: both of his adoring parents, Donald M. Marr and Patricia Marr; his sister, "little buddy," Teri Marr, his two daughters and "buddies forever," DiAnna Marr and Betsy Marr, his two granddaughters Clementine Thompson and Rue Masterson; his adopted daughter, Molly Burke; and three nephews. Don adored his son-in-law Mitch Masterson and his "adopted nerdee son" and Clementine's co-parent Roy Thompson, always expressing gratitude that his daughters were surrounded by love and support. Don's friends span from coast to coast, in the American Legion, at Duncan's diner, on the road, at campgrounds…

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 from 10AM-12PM, at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, with a service to follow at 12PM. Interment to immediately follow the service at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville.