Trustee, alum Donald Gaudion dies at 86

Gaudion earned his bachelor's degree (cum laude) from the University in 1936. He went on to earn a master's degree in business administration with high distinction from Harvard University in 1938.

He was a former president, chairman, and CEO of Sybron Corp., and retired in 1978 after some 30 years with the company.

Gaudion was one of Rochester's foremost business leaders, and as chairman of the National Association of Manufacturers in Washington, D.C., starting in 1974, he made the industries' views known to the administrations of Presidents Nixon, Ford, and Carter. He served on the association's board until his death.

Considered a community leader as well, Gaudion worked on behalf of a number of organizations. He was chairman of the New York State Economic Development Board under Gov. Hugh Carey; a past president of Rochester Jobs Inc., Phi Beta Kappa, Beta Gamma Sigma, the Presbyterian Club, and Harvard Business School; and a past chairman of the United Negro College Fund, to name just some of the organizations he benefited. He also served on local companies' boards of directors. He was honored several times for his contributions.

Gaudion is survived by his wife, Gertrude; his son Donald Gaudion, Jr., of Pittsford; daughters Sharon Sanford and Jacquelyn McClelland, both of Southborough, Mass.; a brother, Richard Gaudion, of Kettering, Ohio; and six grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the University Endowment Fund or the First Presbyterian Church of East Rochester, 109 East Ave., East Rochester, N.Y. 14445.

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