Middle Grove, NY - Donald R. Gerke passed away Friday, Nov. 30, 2012 at Wesley Health Care Center. He was 82. Born on March 9, 1930 in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late Rudolph and Alwine Gerke who had immigrated from Poland to the US during the Bolshevik upheaval. Donald was as rugged and strong as his upbringing suggests. As a lifelong resident and a true family man in every sense of the word, he enjoyed the solitude of the Middle Grove family farmland. He was a 45 year member of IUOE (International Union of Operating Engineers) Local 106. Donald will be sadly missed by all. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his wife and best friend of 56 years, the former Patricia C. Holmwood. Survivors include his daughter, Laurie (Michael) LaBarge of Middle Grove; his grandson, Robert (Letitia) Williams of Johnstown, NY; great-grandaughter, Jessica Slater of Rochester, NY; great-grandsons, Joshua and Jake Slater of Highmount, NY; several brother and sister- in- laws, nieces and nephews. There will be no public calling hours and funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family. Donations may be made in Donald's memory to the Milton Fire District #1, PO Box 72, Rock City Falls, New York 12863. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (584-5373). Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.