David K. Donaldson, Jr., age 78, passed away peacefully at his home in Williamsville on December 28th after a lengthy illness. David was the devoted husband of Dianna Civello, beloved father of Jennifer L. Donaldson (late Scott Anderson); proud stepfather of G. Nicholas Gaetanos (Christina Francis) and Benjamin N. Gaetanos (Steven C. Smith), and adored Grandpa of Wilhelmina, Louisa and Elsie Anderson, Piper and Vivienne Gaetanos and Hudson Smith-Gaetanos. David will also be lovingly remembered by his sisters Dr. Gail Donaldson and Lynne Donaldson (Dr. Charles Brummer) and brother H. Marc Donaldson (Maria), along with several loving nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and in-laws.

David was a graduate of The Nichols School, Columbia University and Yale University School of Architecture. His career as an architect included commissions by the prestigious global design firm, HOK and the University of Maryland. As a project manager for the NFTA, David was particularly proud of his involvement in the renovations of the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. He was a longtime member of the West Side Rowing Club and the Adirondack Club. Whether sculling his single on the Buffalo River or competing in the Men’s Masters, David rowed with precision and passion. He looked forward to Buffalo’s snowy winters and never missed an opportunity to cross country or skate ski, or to join his wife, Dianna, on the dance floor at The Saturn Club.
A gentleman and a scholar, David will be remembered with admiration for his commitment to social and economic justice and nature conservancy, his love of the arts, literature, history and the outdoors, his warm and elegant demeanor, and his signature bow tie.
Donations in Mr. Donaldson’s memory may be made to Hospice Buffalo or Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.