Obituary of Donald K. Laniak

Donald K. Laniak, 85, a long-time resident of Irondequoit, NY died on January 11, 2026 after a brief illness.

A journeyman pattern-maker by training, Don’s exceptional technical talent and creativity, combined with a warm and caring heart, made him an excellent educator in the Rochester City School District. An advocate of vocational education, Don was proudest when his students displayed their talents through meaningful community projects like rebuilding the lightroom of the Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse, or exhibiting their creations in the many competitions and shows they attended. Unassuming to the core, Don believed in the inherent goodness of human nature, the promise of youth, and he always desired to help those around him. His wife, children, grandchildren, woodworking, and spending time in the Thousand Islands fishing and exploring its natural beauty were everything to him.

Don is survived by his wife Betty of nearly sixty-three years, his sister, Barbara Lewandowski, his children Andrew (Luisa) Laniak, Matthew (Gina) Laniak, and Donna (Patrick) Trobia, and six grandchildren, Michael Trobia, Louis Laniak, Olivia Laniak, Erica Trobia, Sydney Laniak, and Charles Laniak, along with several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Konstantyn and Mary Laniak, and his brother David Laniak.

There will be a private interment and prayer service for the family.