Obituary of Ted Donsky
Theodore S. Donsky
On May 24th 2020 passed at the Jewish Home Of Rochester, where he resided for the past three and a half years.
Teddy was born on December 19th, 1926 to parents Samuel and Pauline in Cleveland, Ohio. He was the youngest of seven children and the first generation born in the United States. While he was young and the family experiencing several hardships during the Great Depression, his family packed into their car and headed for NYC where they had family. Without much money they couldn't properly maintain the car and the engine failed along the way. A local farmer picked the family of 9 up and said he'd drive them as far as his final destination, Rochester. Without any money, in an unknown city, knowing nobody, the family did what they always did- the came together and persevered.
Ted is predeceased by his parents, Samuel and Pauline; beloved wife of 63 years, Betty; siblings, Rose, Frank, Joe, Bennie, Evelyn (Bauman), and Isadore. Teddy is survived by his son, Alan (Jessica Salada), grandchildren Lauren and Connor Donsky; several nieces and nephews.
Teddy did his part by caddying at local golf courses, walking miles to and from, carrying clubs weighing more than him. Although they didn't have much in the way of food or belongings, Teddy always spoke of his loving and happy home filled with love, laughter, singing, and dancing. Teddy lived his life this way- happy, always optimistic, and always singing louder than the next.
He was drafted into WW11 during his senior year at Franklin High. He proudly served his country, becoming a Staff Sergeant and going on to serve again in the Korean War, wherein total he'd earn three metals. After WW11 he met Betty while attending Rochester Business Institute, where he was finishing his education. They'd marry nine years later. They were quite the couple, winning dance contests for dances such as the Jitterbug. Everyone says they would have all eyes on them when on the dance floor together. They fulfilled their dreams of a family another nine years later when Al was born. Al will tell you that he had the best parents in the world, and Teddy is his hero.
Ted went onto become a successful real estate agent and broker, eventually having his own business, Ted Donsky Realty. He was also a tax accountant and worked until he was well into his eighties. He and Betty spent several years helping care for their grandchildren Lauren and Connor. He logged more miles than you could count pulling them in a wagon, going to the Zoo, Tom Whal's, and to feed the ducks. He was a proud Father, Grandfather, and brother. Ted would be described as a great man, strong (he'd arm wrestle anyone, even at 90), always smiling, a great listener and advise giver, a truly charming soul, calling everyone "sweetie" and "darlin."
A private ceremony will be held on Thursday May 28th at Britton Road Cemetery. At a later date the family will have a celebration of life, including a full military tribute with honors. A special thank you to the staff at the Jewish Home who cared for him as if he were their own family. We are forever grateful for all they've done.
