Donald H. Deso

Donald Henry Deso, 76, of Champlain, NY, passed away unexpectedly following a medical emergency on June 27, 2026.

Born on June 4, 1950, Donald was the son of the late Joseph and Doris (Dominy) Deso. A lifelong resident of the North Country, Don was known throughout the community for his generosity, kindness, unwavering work ethic, and dedication to serving others.

Don graduated from Chazy Rural School, where he played soccer and proudly scored exactly one goal during his career-unfortunately, it was in the wrong net, a story that he retold with pride and embarrassment. In his younger days, he was an avid bowler and billiards player. He also served his country in the United States Army as a cook.

For more than 30 years, Don devoted himself to the Rouses Point Fire Department. He was one of the department's most dedicated members, responding to countless ambulance and fire calls whenever his community needed him. He played an active role in fundraising and community events, previously chairing beloved traditions such as the breakfast and annual barbecue. His commitment to public service extended beyond the fire department through his membership in the Rouses Point Sportsmen's Club, where he could always be found working the clam station during the club's annual barbecue.

Professionally, Don was an exceptionally skilled craftsman whose expertise in painting and slate roofing earned him a respected reputation throughout the Northeast and even as far away as California. He was particularly known for his work on church steeples and historic buildings. Whether he had experience or not, Don never shied away from a challenge and was always willing to tackle any home improvement project with determination, creativity, and confidence.

Those who knew Don best will remember him for his enormous heart. He would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need and never expected anything in return. He quietly supported friends, neighbors, family members, and complete strangers alike, simply because he believed it was the right thing to do.

Above all else, Don lived for his family. Nothing brought him greater joy or pride than his children and grandchildren.

He was especially close with his daughter, Kelsey. Throughout her childhood, he attended nearly every field trip, volunteered at countless school events, and even chaperoned her French trip to Europe. He faithfully drove her to and from school each day and, years later, proudly insisted he drive her to and from her IVF appointments. The bond they shared was one of unwavering love, support, and pride.

Don cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren. He loved cheering on his grandson, Hank, at sporting events and was his biggest fan from the sidelines. He spent countless hours playing with Owen, whether operating toy fire trucks or constructing magnetic tile buildings together. He treasured sitting on the porch talking with Kylie, whom he cherished and proudly served as a father figure throughout her life. One of his greatest joys was gifting Kylie his prized Mustang convertible. He loved traveling to watch Chelsea and Isabella's horse shows. He loved watching Leigha perform at home, cheering for her singing and dancing like a professional concert. He enjoyed listening to Aiden's fishing stories and admiring Natalia's artwork. Every grandchild held a special place in his heart, and he never missed an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments.

Don was also devoted to his dogs, Jaxon and Stella, who were his constant companions and brought him tremendous comfort and happiness.

He is survived by his children, Adam and Raechel Deso and their son, Hank; Loralee (Parah) and Scott Bechard and their children, Kylie, Isabella, Chelsea, and Leigha; and Kelsey (Deso) and Michael Pearson and their children, Natalia, Aiden, and Owen.

He is also survived by his twin brother, Ronald Deso; his sister, Karen Bower, who shared a home with Don for the past ten years and whom provided invaluable support; his sisters, Connie LaValley, Carol Dagley, and Beverly Deso; his brother, Mark Deso; his beloved dogs, Jaxon and Stella; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Don was predeceased by numerous family members and friends.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Ross Funeral Home, 2586 Route 11, Mooers, New York.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life on Friday, July 3, 2026, at 4:00pm at the American Legion, 29 Pratt Street, Rouses Point, NY.

Thank you to Rouses Point Fire Department for caring for him in his final moments. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Don's honor may be made to the Rouses Point Fire Department.

A life measured not by what he accumulated, but by what he gave, Don leaves behind a legacy of service, generosity, laughter, and unconditional love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but the countless lives he touched will forever carry his memory forward.

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