Obituary of Donald F. Hitchman

Donald F. Hitchman, 89, of Canton, NY passed away on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at his home with his family by his side under the care of Hospice & Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley.

Don was born October 13, 1934, in the town of Antwerp to the late Levi and Grace (Rohrmoser) Hitchman.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Shirley (Rathbun) Hitchman; his son Paul (Karen) and daughter Laurie Hitchman; grandsons Evan Hitchman and Chad (Heather) Hitchman; great-grandchildren Laken Hitchman and Anna, Heidi and Luke Hitchman; sister Francis (Ronald) Whitmore and brothers Fred and Dean (Janet) Hitchman and several nieces and nephews. 

He was predeceased by his brother Lawrence (Judy) Hitchman.

Don and Shirley were married on June 9, 1956, and began their journey in Watertown, NY.  Don worked at NY Air Brake for several years before moving to Canton, NY where he began employment with the Village of Canton.  After a short time, Don started driving tractor trailer for Sunoco, Agway and Matlack.  Following several decades of over-the-road hauling, Don chose to stay closer to home and began working for St. Lawrence University up until his retirement.

Even during his busy years of employment, Don found time to raise and milk several dairy cows.  Eventually the cows were sold and replaced by five Nubian dairy goats.  The herd grew quickly to thirty and the cheesemaking began.  Don & Shirley’s cheese products became extremely sought after, often selling out at the local farmer’s market, Co-ops, and the NYS Fair.  Their cheese products were even served by fine restaurants in Lake Placid.  In 2004 the couple were awarded Fetta Cheese Grand Champion and Supreme Champion against all parties at the NYS Fair.  Many other ribbons were won by showing goats at local county and state fairs.

Don was an accomplished truck driver, cheese maker and fixer of many things.  Don also enjoyed going to hunting camp, working in the vegetable garden and experimenting in the kitchen!

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, October 29 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM and his funeral will begin at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 30 at Lawrence Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Canton with Rev. Michael P. Catanzaro officiating.  Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Canton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley.