Donald W. Stake ’57

Don died Feb. 21, 2016, in Schenectady, N.Y., surrounded by family. While at Princeton, Don majored in English, was active in the Chapel Choir, and took his meals at Campus Club. During his senior year, he roomed with John Robinson and Jerry Mulder.

After graduation, Don earned a degree from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1960, and was assistant pastor at Union Presbyterian Church in Schenectady from 1960 to 1966. He became senior pastor in 1966 and held that position until his retirement in 2001, when he became a public-relations specialist for Community Hospice until 2014.

Don was stated clerk of the Presbytery of Albany from 1975 to 1987 and an editorial cartoonist for the Spotlight Newspapers from 1987 to 2008. Throughout his career, he was a contributor to multiple church publications, including the Book of Common Worship. He was active in the ecumenical and interfaith community, in which he served on many committees. Don loved his family, his two cats, and everything Disney. He enjoyed many quality and meaningful friendships throughout the years.

Don is survived by his wife of 28 years, Mary Jane; daughters Jennifer and Amy; stepchildren Mary Lee, Ian Douglas, and David McKechnie; 13 grandchildren; and a niece and nephew.