Ilion - Donald Louis Ames, 77, passed away peacefully at home on July 4, 2023 surrounded by his loving wife and family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Don was born in Frankfort on December 30, 1945 and was a self-proclaimed “country boy” by word and action, fondly remembering his childhood memories of working on a farm. This upbringing built an incredible work ethic that he carried throughout his entire life, inspiring those around him. He worked for 41 years at Remington Arms, as a machinist and gunsmith, where he developed life-long friendships and an endless list of memories and antics, all of which he remembered with great fondness. Don had a wonderful sense of humor that would bring a smile to all of those around him. In his younger years, Don enjoyed playing softball, running, bowling, and hunting (perhaps more about enjoying walking in the woods while eating snacks). He was an avid sports fan and especially loved the Dodgers, Raiders, Islanders and Lakers (and was known to bandwagon on to a winning team!). Those that knew Don may say his biggest source of pride was his family. He had an unwavering loyalty and an everlasting love for them that he demonstrated through words and actions. This love led him to work relentlessly to provide for his family, while investing time in supporting them in many schools, sports, and life activities. He was known for his jovial smile, his sense of humor, and his unbounding love for his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all that had the very good fortune of knowing him. He is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria Swald Ames, of over 33 years in marriage and courtship, whom he deeply loved and appreciated. He will be lovingly remembered by his beloved children, Kim (Mike), Don (Laura) and Tricia; step-children, David, Kimberly, Lisa, Lester (Missy); his siblings, Sandra, Mary (Richard), Walter Jr. (Beverly); brothers and sisters in law, Eileen, Janeth and Donald (Pat); 15 grandchildren whom he deeply loved and was proud of – Karalyn, Jon, Joey, Lauren, Matthew, Jennifer, Emma, Shawn, Clay, Isaiah, Amber, Josh, Nicholas, Geralyn and Ethan and 2 great-grandchildren - Cole, Caden along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother and father, Iola and Walter Ames, Sr. and many beloved family members. Don’s family would like to send special thanks to the caring staff at Upstate Cancer Center (especially Dr. Seth, Julie and Debbie), and Hospice Care of Oneida, Herkimer, Eastern Madison County for their support and care of Don and his family during his battle with cancer. A heartfelt note of thanks goes out to Cindy S. (Hospice nurse) whose compassion, grace, and guidance were so very much appreciated during Don’s final days. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2023 at 4:30 pm in the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. in Ilion with Pastor Dean Mabry, officiating. Calling hours will take place from 3:00 pm until the time of services in the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Don's memory to Hospice & Palliative Care, 4277 Middle Settlement Rd., New Hartford, NY 13413. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. To leave condolences for Don's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com