Donald J. Carsto, 88, died peacefully at his home in Fulton, NY on February 22, 2026.
Don was born August 31, 1937 in Shamokin, PA to the late Joseph and Frances (Bobroski) Carsto, arriving, according to family legend, in the midst of his sister Connie’s birthday celebration.
Don graduated from Shamokin High School in 1956 where he was a decorated three sport high school athlete, setting many records. He went on to play college football at the University of Cincinnati before enlisting in the army. He served as a medic, stationed in Germany.
Among the many important lessons he passed to his family, he modeled a tireless work ethic throughout his life. He began working as a young man in the coal mines near his home before entering the construction field. Ultimately, he was the well-respected founder and owner of successful pipeline construction companies in the central New York region.
In addition to these professional accomplishments, Don built his family home in Fulton with his own hands, and the help of his family and friends, who quickly learned to follow the lead and directions of “The Boss.” The resulting Carsto “Compound” was renowned for its hospitality, hosting countless gatherings and celebrations over several decades. He valued time with those he loved and worked diligently to ensure each person felt at home, was well-fed and entertained.
In his retirement, Don spent his time watching his grandchildren’s sporting events and school activities, doing school pick up and drop off and being a generous and doting grandfather.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Claudine (Raponi) Carsto of Fulton, NY; his children Debra (Daniel) Yurcaba of Paxinos, PA , Donald (Kimber) Carsto of Waxhaw, NC, Geri (Matthew) Geitner of Syracuse, NY, Ty (Deirdre) Carsto and Kristen (Leroy) Collins of Fulton, NY. In addition, he is survived by his eleven beloved grandchildren, Lindsay (Alan) Graham, Alex Yurcaba, Micah and Teagan Carsto, Hannah (Kerri Eden) and Jacob (Sarah Tallents) Geitner, Cole and Talon Carsto, and Donovan, Dominic and Drew Collins. He also leaves behind a sister, Gloria Cerklefskie, and brother Frank (Beverly) Carsto, his brothers- and sisters-in-law, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, Don was predeceased by his brothers Joseph “Sonny” Carsto, Robert “Sid” Carsto, Richard Carsto and his sister Connie Greco.
Calling hours will be Tuesday March 3, 2026 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Sugar Funeral Home Inc., 224 W. 2nd St. S. Fulton. Funeral services will be Wednesday March 4, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Holy Trinity Parish, Fulton. Spring burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Fulton.
My husband was from Fulton and his best friend in high school was Claudine and Tessie was his second mom. We live in So California, but came to visit Fulton over the years. Don always made us feel so welcome, he seem to always enjoy company. He was a beautiful husband to my dear friend Claudine. With love, Sheila Smith