Donald H. McKean

   Donald H. McKean, 85, Clayton, NY and winter resident of Rockledge, FL passed away January 1, 2026 in Melbourne, FL.

   Don was born August 4, 1940 in Catskill, NY the son of Walter and Evelyn (Hummel) McKean. He was a graduate of Palmyra-Macedon Central School, received his BS from SUNY Brockport, and his MA from the University of Rochester.

On July 10, 1965 he married Joyce A. Milligan at the United Church of Cape Vincent.

   Don started his career in education at Byron-Bergen Central School where he was the elementary PE teacher and coach, working there from 1963-1967. After receiving his Masters degree, the couple moved to Cape Vincent in 1969 where he began his employment at Cape Vincent Central School. After the school merged with Clayton Central School and became Thousand Islands Central School, he was the Director of Guidance and filled in as an interim Principal on several occasions. He was instrumental in guiding countless students to a productive future.

   Don also served as a part-time Immigration officer at the TI border for many years.

   He was a member of the Masons, Cape Vincent Lions Club, Cape Vincent Volunteer Fire Department, N. Y. S. Teacher's Association, and a proponent of the Thousand Islands Foundation. He enjoyed fast pitch softball, golfing, hunting, fishing, cross country skiing and snowmobiling. 

   Along with his wife, Joyce, Don is  survived by his two sons, Kurt D. (Johni Cheryl) McKean, Oklahoma City, OK and Troy D. (Carolyn) McKean, Dallas, GA and Round Island; seven grandchildren: Maeghan McKean, McKenna McKean, Kurt (Alex) McKean, Justin Brown, Michael George, Dustin George, and Morgan Ford as well as two nieces, one nephew and two cousins.

   A celebration of Don’s life will be held at a time and date to be announced. Burial in Riverside Cemetery, Cape Vincent will be at his family's convenience. Arrangements are entrusted with Cummings Funeral Service, Inc., Clayton and online condolences to his family may be posted at www.cummingsfuneral.com. Donations in Don’s memory may be made online to the Thousand Islands Foundation, www.thousandislandsfoundation.org.

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