Donald William VanBuren, Jr. passed away peacefully on February 9, 2025 with his two daughters and some of his closest family by his side, after losing his life long battle with his health.

Donnie was born July 10, 1957 to Carol (Cook) Vescio and Donald VanBuren Sr. He was born in Oswego but spent most of his childhood moving due to his father's involvement in the military. They settled down in a nice home in Oswego, just in time for high school where he met the best friends he will ever have. After high school he worked for the Labors Union briefly before he moved to Steamboat CO. Where he worked with an independent contractor while he was there. Soon after he came back home to Oswego, he worked for the Painters union. He then introduced his first daughter, Nicole. Four years later he had his second and last child, Katelynn. He then went on to work for Nine Mile as security. He finished his working career with The Building and Ground Department for Oswego County. Then his health issues finally took over.

Although Donnie was now out of work, he still had his hands full with the birth of his first grandchild, Aiden, in 2008. Some of Aidens favorite things to do with his Papa were lots of sleepovers, rides on the boat and going fishing in the river. Aiden was the only grandchild for five years, then came Rayna in 2011. Rayna grew to love Donnie just as much as Aiden. Loved fishing, swimming and sleepovers. Loved staying up late and drawing with him. Then lastly came Gannon in 2016. As Gannnon got older, he and Donnie bonded over similar wit and humor. He was so proud of all of his children and grandchildren. So proud of all their accomplishments and what amazing humans they've become.

Donnie was preceded in death by his father, Donald (Melody) VanBuren in 2000 and his mother, Carol (Andrew) Vescio in 2021.

He is survived by his children, Nicole (Christopher Gregoris) VanBuren and Katelynn (Tyler Niday) VanBuren, his grandchildren, Aiden, Rayna, and Gannon Ladd. His siblings, Kristan Cook, Samantha (Duke) Brien, Janet (Harley) Wakeman and Kevin (Tammy) VanBuren and their children, his nieces and nephews. Along with his Aunt Cathrine Cook Smith and his Uncle George (Erinn) Cook.

Services will be this Friday from 4-6. Where his lifelong friends at Dain- Cullinan Funeral Home will help us say our final goodbyes to our beloved father, son, brother, nephew and friend.

Life dealt Donnie a tough hand and he sucked it up and played anyway. But now, it's time for him to put down the cards and rest.