Donald L. Hardesty, 80

Donald L. Hardesty, 80, of Ballston Spa, N.Y., died Saturday, Aug, 27, 2005, at the DVA Medical Center in Albany, N.Y.

Born in Scotia on Aug. 16, 1925, he was the son of the late Llewelyn and Lois Hardesty.

He was an Army veteran of World War II and was awarded a Purple Heart.

Donald worked for Rocky Mountain Gas Co in Aspen, Colo., for many years. Upon his retirement, he resided in both Sandpoint, Idaho, and Thailand and returned to New York in 2001. He was a world traveler and was interested in the environment. He enjoyed skiing, hiking and spending time in the outdoors.

He was predeceased by a daughter Sheryl Hardesty.

Survivors include his two daughters, Pamela Hardesty of Tucson, Ariz., and Donna Higley of Ballston Spa; his sister, Elaine (Charles) Turnbull of Scotia and five grandchildren, Holly Deutchman, Catherine Higley, Clare Higley, Matthew Searl and Sarah Hardesty. He is also survived by three great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A service with full military honors will be held 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 9, 2005, at the Gerald B H Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Town of Saratoga, NY.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Rd., Loudonville, NY 12211 or DVA Medical Center, 113 Holland Ave., Albany, NY, 12208.