QUEENSBURY – Daniel S. Griffin, 88, died on June 29th at Fort Hudson Nursing Home in Fort Edward with Sally, his beloved wife of 63 years, at his side.
He was born June 17, 1930, in New York City and was the son of the late O. Thompson and Margaret (Knight) Griffin of Hudson Falls.
He graduated from Hobart College in Geneva, in 1953.
On February 26, 1955, he married Sarah “Sally” Wheeler Alden in Swarthmore, PA.
He was commissioned in the United States Air Force and graduated from pilot training in 1955. His assignments included tours in Madrid, Spain, Mitchel Air Force Base on Long Island, Dobbins AFB, Marietta, GA, The Armed Forces Staff College in Norfolk, VA, the Philippine Islands including jungle survival training, Viet Nam and Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, DC. His grand total flying time is 9340 hours.
Colonel Griffin flew over 400 aerial combat missions in Viet Nam, Laos and Cambodia during the East Asia conflict. His decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with seven oak leaf clusters.
While stationed at Andrews Air Force Base, he flew Air Force Two for Vice Presidents Agnew and Rockefeller, as well as missions for various Cabinet Members and the Nixon family.
After 23 years of dedicated service, he retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 1975.
He and his wife, Sally, formerly owned and operated Griffin Brothers Co. and Griffin Oil Company in Hudson Falls. The business was sold in 1985. His most recent business involvement included apartment rentals in the local area.
He was a ten-year member of the Queensbury Zoning Board of Appeals. Other memberships included the Glens Falls Country Club and the Retired Officers Association.
Besides his wife, Sally (Alden) Griffin of Fort Edward, Dan is survived by a son, Richard K. Griffin of Acworth, GA; a daughter, Margaret A. Bernard of Schenectady; three grandsons, Steven Knight Griffin and Jeffrey Alden Griffin of Atlanta, GA and Andrew Philip Bernard of Schenectady; and a granddaughter, Sarah Gail Jewett of Jacksonville, NC; two great grandchildren; and his brothers, Thompson Knight Griffin and wife, Virginia of Scottsdale, AZ and James H. Wright and wife, Janet of Falmouth, Maine.
Donations in Dan’s name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 4 Pine West Plaza #405, Albany, NY 12205 or to a charity of your choice.
At Dan’s request there will be no calling hours. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements are under the care of the Carleton Funeral Home, 68 Main Street, Hudson Falls, New York.
Dan was one of the finest men I’ve ever met. I wish I could have said goodbye.
Sally, Dru and I were so saddened to read of Dan’s death. I have so many great memories of him playing golf at the GFCC and always admired his service to our country. He was a really great person and I know he will be missed. Please accept our deepest condolences. With warm regards, Brian
Sally, I am very sorry to hear about your husband. Though I only knew him from the short time of having be my father’s roommate there at Fort Hudson, I could tell that he seemed like a mild mannered, kind-hearted person. You could tell that he had some very interesting stories to tell……
A bible verse to comfort the soul that is fitting for Dan –
1 Peter 3: 3-4;
Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. 4 Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.
And that is how I will remember Dan. He had a Gentle, quiet spirit.
Rest In Peace and God Speed Dan Griffin
Sally…we are truly saddened to hear about Dan. We will remember him fondly as we look back over the years, as residents on the mountain. I always felt like Dan was watching out for all of us. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Dan was much more than an uncle. He was a calm, wise mentor who I’ve always respected. I cherish the many years I worked with Dan in the 80’s and 90’s. My career in the military and vocation in residential renovations are both directly related to his example. Thanks Dan
It’s so hard to lose such a wonderful role model and decent human being. Also, I remember the love he had for his many dogs… some were giant fur babies! He will be missed. I am so sorry for your loss, Sally