Donald R. Tench ’41

Mr. Donald R. Tench, formerly of Hinsdale, MA passed away on Saturday, March 5, 2022, shortly after celebrating his 100th birthday. His wife of 60 years, Edna E. Tench (nee Snedeker) of Nyack, NY predeceased him in 2006. Born in Brooklyn, NY on January 21, 1922, the son of Warren R. Tench and Daphne Tench (nee Bellows). Don attended the world-renowned Saint Thomas Choir School in NY and was a top performer in the Saint Thomas Boys Choir. He went on to graduate high school from Williston Academy (now The Williston Northampton School) in Easthampton, MA before enrolling at Syracuse University. Like so many of his generation, his college career was cut short by the outbreak of World War II. Following basic training at the Mojave Desert Training Center, Don served in the Allied Expeditionary Force in Iran, where he was an Armed Forces Radio alert and message operator as well as disc jockey for the troops.

Although Don owned and operated a Purina supply store in Pittsfield, MA for many years, he retired as a well-known antiques dealer. His love of antiques was sparked by his even greater love for his wife, and their substantial antiques business began as a small corner in their supply store many decades ago. Don loved to golf and fish and was a member of the Hinsdale Congregational Church for many years.

Don is also predeceased by his brother, Bob, his nieces Judy, and Nancy and his great granddaughter, Molly O’Keefe Alden. His niece Robin Tench lives in Calif. Don and Edna are survived by their children, Kathleen J. Adams, and Newton Bollinger Tench, as well as their beloved grandchildren, Jessie R. Alden, Nathan D.T. Robinson-Alden, Philip D. Alden, Jay Tench and James Tench as well as eight other great grandchildren, Aaron, Aidenne ’18, Jameson, Julianna, Philip, Maevyn, Jacob, and Benjamin.

Don’s family would like to thank the entire staff at HospiceCare in the Berkshires for their outstanding kindness and care throughout this difficult time.

A small graveside service will be held at Clarksburg Cemetery at a later date. Donations can be made to 1st Congregational Church of Hinsdale in lieu of flowers.

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