Herman D. Donaldson

Herman D. Donaldson of East Aurora, NY, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on February 8, 2026. He was the beloved husband of the late Sharon M. (née Lux); cherished father of Candi Donaldson-Thornton and the late Renee (the late Richard) Fisher; and adored grandfather of Derek and Kelsey Thornton and D’Arcy Fisher. He was the loving father-in-law of Scott Thornton and is also survived by his nephew, Bruce (Shari) Donaldson.

Herman was predeceased by his parents, Homer and Ethel (née Blackman) Donaldson, and his siblings, Margie Blum, H. Floyd Donaldson, Fred Donaldson, Eugene Donaldson, and Phyllis Jablonski.

Herman was the proud owner of Donaldson Christmas Tree Farm and worked as a lumberjack in his younger years. He began working at just five years old, picking vegetables on land that he later purchased to expand the Christmas Tree Farm. He and his wife, Shari retired from the Christmas tree business in 2010.

A veteran of the United States Air Force, Herman served from 1958 to 1962. He was stationed in Alaska as an air traffic control controller during the Korean War. In recognition of his commitment and contributions, he was honored by the Erie County Legislature for 65 years of service to the community.

Herman took great pride in the beautiful flower gardens across his property, especially his prize “dinner plate dahlias,” which brought him immense joy.

Family will be present on Friday, March 6th from 4-7 PM at Wood Funeral Home, 784 Main Street, East Aurora, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to East Aurora Post 362, American Legion, 1 Legion Drive, East Aurora, NY. Online condolences may be shared at www.woodfh.com