Donald James Hughes

Donald J. Hughes of Watertown New York passed away on Saturday May 25th, 2024 at his daughter's home after a short illness. 

Don was born in February of 1948 to Rose (Jareo) and Richard Hughes Sr. of West Carthage New York. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1966. After graduation he served in the US Air Force from 1966 to 1972. He then resided in Riverside California where he worked for the Southern California Gas Company for more than 20 years. In 1978 he married the love of his life Kathrin (Cooper) Hughes until her death in 1991. 

Don was a hard-working kind and generous man. Being a skilled handyman he enjoyed helping family friends and neighbors in any way he could. He was a lover of all animals and helped rescue many in need. He loved a good joke or story and had many to tell. Don loved music, movies and following the New York Yankees. 

Donald is predeceased by his parents Richard and Rose Hughes, his wife Kathrin Hughes, his brother Thomas Hughes, sister Carol Esposito (Hughes), brother-in-law James Esposito, parents-in-law Ernest and Viola Cooper, and brother-in-law Dave Tharp. 

Donald is survived by his daughter Somer Hughes (Cody Baker) their children Collin and Aidan Baker of Adams Center New York, stepdaughter Renae (Jake) Gansereit and their children Lauren and Megan of Riverside California, stepson James (Kam) Uli and their children Emerson and Rebecca of Temecula California, brother Richard (Jenevieve) Hughes Jr. of Aurora Colorado. Brother and sisters-in-law Dennis (Juanita) Cooper, Vickie (Dwayne) Snyder, Kimm Tharp and Shirley Hughes along with many nieces nephews and cousins. 

There will be a celebration of life memorial for Donald on June 22nd at his daughter's home. Arrangements have been made by Cleveland Funeral Home of Watertown, New York. Online condolences can be made at www.clevelandfhinc.com.

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