Donald James English

Cambridge – Donald James “Red” English, 76, of Cambridge, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, March 17, 2024 after a long illness. He was born April 29, 1947 in Cambridge the son of the late Benjamin and Arlene (Eddy) English. Red put his heart and soul into the family farm starting from a very young age. He was also a member of the Cambridge Saddle Club and would often ride in the local Memorial Day parades. He was known for his hats and to always have a pipe in his pocket. He was a hard-working man who seemed gruff on the outside but a caring man on the inside. The grandkids loved going to the farm because Grandpa Red always had some sweets on hand, whether in the barn or in the house. There was always a sugared donut or ice cream to snack on. Red was a man of few words until you crossed into the door of the barn during milking. He was truly his mother’s son at that point having the gift to gab and getting caught up talking about one’s life stories. Red was a lover of country fairs and tractor pulls. He was a yearly participant in the local tractor pulls. He would bring a herd of sheep to the local fair for the kids to show. He and Paddy would travel around the state visiting the county fairs watching horse shows and enjoying an ice cream cone. Red loved his farm, his dogs and his sweets. Never ran by a clock, we called it “On English Time”. He would keep one clock on “English Time” and change the rest to daylights saving time. In addition to his parents, Red was predeceased by a daughter, Angela English Pemrick; a brother, David English. Red is survived by his partner of 36 years, Paddy Krausse; his children, Alysa Woods (Rod), Donald English, Jr. and Tricia English, all of Cambridge; his grandkids, Tessa Pemrick, Darren Pemrick, Erika Woods and Justin Woods (Rhia); his great grandkids, Colin and Mason Woods; his sister, Donna English Grippe (Donald Kratzenberg); he also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, great nieces, nephews and extended family, Stephanie Waldbillig, Benjamin Waldbillig, Andrew Waldbillig, Nathan Waldbillig, Easton Waldbillig and three more great grandkids. The family would like to give many thanks to Lynn Barber, Beth Calhoun, Tricia English and Joyce Michel for their continued care throughout his courageous battle with Parkinsons. There will be no calling hours or service. The family is following his wishes and will have a private burial. Memorial contributions in Red’s memory may be made to the Cambridge FFA Chapter, Attn: Brooklin Drake, 24 South Park St., Cambridge, NY 12816. To offer condolences to the family, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com The Ackley, Ross & Gariepy Funeral Home in Cambridge is assisting the family.

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