Donald L. Block

Donald L. Block, 77, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed from this life on Wednesday, July 27, 2016 in Mount St. Mary’s Hospital.  Born on April 3, 1939 in North Tonawanda, NY, he was the son of the late Leonard and Arley (Gilmore) Block. On October 4, 1969, he married the former Shirley McGinley.

Mr. Block attended schools in North Tonawanda and has been a resident of Niagara Falls for the past fifty years.  Donald proudly served in the United States Army, during the Vietnam War, and was honorably discharged on February 28, 1969.  He worked as a repair technician, along side his father at his family business, Block Radio and Television.  Mr. Block enjoyed riding his motorcycle and in the 1950’s rode with the Road Vultures.  Donald was a NASCAR and NHRA drag racing fan.  He loved spending time in Virginia with his cousins.  His family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to Dr. Frank Laurri and his wife as well as the staff at Mount St. Mary’s Hospital and Our Lady of Peace Nursing Care Residence.  

In addition to his wife of over forty-six years, Mr. Block is survived by three children, Leonard Charles Block, Stanley James (Marilyn) Stine and Susan Mae “Pinky” Printup; two grandchildren, Christine (Djuan) and Thomas Conklin;  two great-grandchildren, Ty Alexander and Tavarius James Richardson and four step-great-grandchildren.  Donald is also survived by two sisters, Jane (Kenneth) Sitzman and Martha Ann Block; two nephews; two great-nephews; two great-nieces; many relatives and friends; dear friend, Ronald Weeks and his pet dog, Gizmo “Pookie”.  In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by one grandson, James Allan; mother-in-law, Lena McGinley and grandma Brown.

Visitation will be on Tuesday from 3-7 p.m. in the Chapel of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, in the Town of Niagara, where a funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 3rd at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Judith Burrows and Deacon Patrick Bradley officiating.  Private interment in Niagara Falls Memorial Park Cemetery, Lewiston, NY.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 140 Rainbow Blvd., Niagara Falls, NY 14303.  Please visit www.ottoredanz.com for online condolences.