Donald Fina

Donald K. Fina, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and former Saranac Lake Chief of Police, died at the Adirondack Medical Center on September 27, 2023 at the age of 78 years old.

Donnie, as he was known, or “Chief,” whose love of local community, was only second to that of his family, resided for nearly five decades at Mountain Road, Saranac Lake. He was surrounded by love in his final days, with his two sons, Brian and Kevin and dear wife, Ann Latour Fina, who he fondly referred to as “Pumpkin” up until his last breath.

Donnie was a lifelong resident of Saranac Lake, born August 24, 1945 to Pascal A. Fina and Isabel (Wisdom Furlong) Fina. A graduate of Saranac Lake High School class of 1965, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served in Biloxi Mississippi, Thailand and Plattsburgh Air Force Base.

Upon returning to his beloved Saranac Lake, Donnie married the love of his life, Ann Latour on October 4th, 1969 in St Bernard’s Church.

Committed to service and his community, Donnie had a 23-year career with the Saranac Lake Police Department, retiring in 1992, and achieving the rank of Chief of Police. During his time with the Saranac Lake Police Department, Donnie was most proud to have graduated from the 106 Session of the FBI National Academy.

Equally, he was committed to ensuring a safe community and supporting countless events, and efforts to help those in need. In addition to the Saranac Police Department, he was a member of the Saranac Lake Fire Department and a member of the BPOE 1508 Elks Club.

When he wasn’t working, helping friends, or keeping up with his chores, you were always able to find him at home on a Saturday night surrounded by friends sharing stories over a spaghetti dinner. Donnie enjoyed boating and savoring the beauty of the Adirondacks with his Ann by his side. He was always happiest when he was with his family and friends and relished his time with his 4 grandchildren.

When they weren’t at home in Saranac Lake, Donnie and Annie enjoyed the warm Florida sunshine each winter, building lifelong friends and lasting memories on the shores of Daytona Beach..

Donnie is predeceased in death by his brother Thomas, twin brother Ronald, sister Patricia as well as several step brothers and sisters. He is survived by his wife Ann of 54 years, his son Brian, granddaughter Erin and grandson Benjamin and Brian’s partner, Beth L. Hill, and her son, Ethan; son Kevin, granddaughter Ellie and grandson Tate. Kevin’s partner Chiree Kligopoulos and her sons Alek, Kaiden. and daughter Laney. Survivors also include Nancy Fina of Saranac Lake, Sr Brian Marie Latour of Plattsburgh, A. Elizabeth Latour of Elderwood in Lake Placid and many nieces and nephews. Beloved spouse, father, community leader, mentor, and friend, Donnie made a mark on all of our hearts. We are all beneficiaries of his time with us.

Calling hours will take place at the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home on Thursday October 5, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial with Police and Fireman Honors will take place on Friday October 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM at St. Bernard's Church in Saranac Lake with Rev. Paul Kelly officiating. Burial will follow at St. Bernard Cemetery in Saranac Lake.

Friends and family wishing to remember Donnie are asked to make a memorial donation to the Saranac Lake Volunteer Fire Department or The Holiday Helpers in care of the Kiwanis PO Box 543, Saranac Lake, NY 12983