Donald Charles Coughlin, 81, Massena

MASSENA -- Donald Charles Coughlin, age 81, succumbed to his Parkinson’s on Sunday, May 5, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

It was a long battle that the Irishman fought bravely.

Per Don’s request there will be no calling hours or services.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Phillips Memorial Home, Massena.

Don was born on October 11, 1942, in Malone, NY to Marjorie and Charles Coughlin.

He graduated Valedictorian and class president form St. Joseph’s Academy in 1960. He graduated from Le Moyne College with a Bachelor’s in French and Spanish, and then SUNY Potsdam with a Master’s in Education.

He loved to make people laugh, dance with his wife, all animals, especially dogs, thrift store shopping, and most of all time with his family.

Don met his best friend and wife, Barbara Jeane Schreiner, at his first teaching job in Alex Bay. They were married August 21, 1965.

Don was a true Renaissance man and the original Mr. Mom. He worked at the Bridge Authority, was past vice president of the East Coast Chapter of the Chihuahua Club of America, raised and showed Chihuahuas for 40 years, showing many AKC champions, taught at Alex Bay, Massena, and Madrid Waddington Central school, and owned and operated the Seaway Motel in Massena.

Don and Barb sold the motel in 1985 and moved to their dream home, Don retired from Madrid Waddington Central School in 1996. While accomplishing all of this be took care of his two children while Barb worked full time.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Barbara. His daughter, Elizabeth (Beth) and Stan Lashomb of Potsdam. His favorite grandson, Joseph (Joey) Lashomb of Potsdam. A brother, Robert and Jamie of Albany. Brothers in-law Ralph Jr. and Marian Schreiner, John and Mary Schreiner, and sister in-law Susan and John Benedict. Several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He will be missed by all.

Don was predeceased by his son, Gregory, his parents, his in-laws, Rita and Ralph Schreiner. Many beloved Aunts and Uncles.

Don received a liver transplant in 2006 and to that organ donor, the family thanks you, because of your generosity the family enjoyed 17 more years of love, laughter, music and football. Don’s wish was to donate his body to science. Even in death he continues to teach people.

The family would like to extend sincere gratitude to Health Services of Northern New York; 56 Market St, Potsdam, NY 13676 and Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley; 6805 US-11, Potsdam, NY 13676.

Any memorial contributions to these organizations would be greatly appreciated.

Family and friends are encouraged to share online condolences, memories and pictures may be shared with the family by visiting www.PhillipsMemorial.com.