Obituary of Donald Farleo

Donald E. Farleo "Papa Don" Binghamton, NY-Donald E. Farleo, 71, formerly of Olean, died Monday (June 8, 2009) in his home. Born June 11, 1937 in Olean, NY he was the son of Joseph and Charlotte Marie Farleo. He was formerly married to Judith Matthews (Bell), now residing in Olean. Mr. Farleo served in the US Army from June 1957 until June 1960. After honorable discharge from the United States Army Reserves in 1962, he became a police officer for the City of Olean for six years. He left employment for work hours more conducive to raising his growing family and to pursue his college education. In 1972 he received a Bachelor of Science Degree from St. Bonaventure University in Allegany, NY. His employment focus shifted to helping the mentally disabled. He was the Executive Director of the Allegany County ARC. He also worked as a social worker for Cattaraugus County and on the Cattaraugus County Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse. He retired from the former St. Francis Hospital in Olean where he worked in the Mental Health Unit from 1987 to 1993. An avid sports fan, Mr. Farleo coached each of his four sons all through midget football and little league baseball. He moved to Binghamton in 1993 and in his retirement he was an active participant in veteran events and activities. He also enjoyed playing cards, golf, attending baseball and hockey games, and time with his friends. His greatest joy was the time he spent with his many grandchildren - always imparting a quick laugh, a big hug and "Papa Don" wisdom at every opportunity. Surviving are his dearest friend Charlotte McMichael of Binghamton; 4 sons Don (Diane) Farleo, Jr. of St. Cloud, MN, Thomas (Gina) Farleo of New Port Richey, FL, Jon Farleo of Olean and James (Kirstin) Farleo of Williamsville; several grandchildren; 1 brother Fr. Brennan Joseph (Bill) Farleo, OFM, Conv. of St. Francis Friary in Staten Island, NY and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by 1 brother Joseph F. Farleo on May 2, 2005 and a sister-in-law Janet Farleo on February 22, 2008. Friends will be received at the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home 3128 W. State Rd. Olean on Sunday from 4-8pm. Funeral services will be held Monday (June 15, 2009) beginning with a prayer service at the funeral home at 9:30am. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00am in St. Mary of the Angels Church, W. Henley St. in Olean. Fr. Brennan Joseph Farleo, OFM, Conv. will be the principal celebrant. Burial will be in St. Bonaventure Cemetery. Memorials may be made to any Olean area Youth Organizations.