Hamilton, William Clemens CLIFTON PARK William Clemens Hamilton, age 80, passed away on Saturday, October 2, 2021. Bill was born on July 7, 1941, in Orange, N.J. to the late Joseph A. and Ruth L. (Clemens) Hamilton. Bill grew up in New Jersey and graduated from Summit High School. At the University of Vermont, he obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering and met his wife Janet. He later earned his Master of Science degree in engineering from Union College. Upon his graduation from the University of Vermont in 1966, Bill began his engineering career at General Electric Corporation (GE) in Daytona Beach, Fla. He joined GE's Schenectady offices in 1971, at which point Bill and Janet moved into their current home in Clifton Park. Bill later joined GE spin-off Intermagnetics General Corp. (IGC). IGC was subsequently acquired by Phillips Medical Systems, where Bill remained until his retirement in 2011.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. From his youth in New Jersey to the present-day Bill maintained a deep enthusiasm for nature and the great outdoors, which he passed down to his entire family. He was an avid sailor, skier, hiker and a longtime member of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club and the Flying Dutchman Association. Bill was an expert woodworker and member of the Northeast Woodworkers Association. The artisan bowls, candlesticks and Christmas ornaments he created were treasured by his family and friends, as was his willingness to lend a hand with any house project. He was a long time and active member of Christ Community Reformed Church, where he served as a deacon and assisted on the church's finance committee.
Bill is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Janet (Miller) Hamilton; his loving sons, William C. Hamilton Jr. (Carol), Christopher G. Hamilton (Jacki) and Douglas A. Hamilton (Shawna); his adored grandchildren, William C. Hamilton III, Broderick M. Hamilton, Theodore N. Hamilton, and Hugh A. Hamilton and his sisters, Morganna Hamilton and Mary Beneville. Bill is also survived by many extended family members and friends.
Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Wednesday, October 13, at 12 p.m. at Christ Community Reformed Church, 1010 NY-146, Clifton Park. A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. Interment will be held on Wednesday, October 13, at 2:30 p.m. in Memory Gardens Cemetery and Memorial Park, Colonie.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill's name to Christ Community Reformed Church, 1010 NY-146, Clifton Park, NY, 12065 or to Massachusetts General Hospital in support of lung cancer research. Gifts may be made online at https://giving.massgeneral.org/donate/ (specify Lung Cancer Research in the drop down) or mailed to the MGH Development Office, attention: Keith Erickson, 125 Nashua St., Suite 540, Boston, MA, 02114. Checks payable to Massachusetts General Hospital. Please include in honor of Bill Hamilton on the memo line. Arrangements are entrusted to Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, Ballston Lake, and they encourage you to view and leave messages on William's Book of Memories at TownleyWheelerFH.com.
SARATOGA SPRINGS Marcel Bernard Zucchino, 94, passed away peacefully at home on February 21, 2021. He was predeceased by his wife in 2001, and leaves behind many loved ones including his children, Nancy and Steven; his partner Muriel Finger; grandchildren, nieces and nephews, friends, and his cat now living with a family member. Born and raised in Jersey City, he enlisted in the Army in World War II and then earned a degree from Newark College of Engineering. From his college yearbook, "...Marcel is a serious-minded individualist; however, he has a wry sense of humor, especially when he and Nelson cavort in class."
In 1951, Marcel married Margaret Mortensen. They lived in Long Branch, N.J., where Nancy was born. He took a job with Espey Mfg. and he and Margie soon moved to Saratoga Springs, where Steven was born. In 1967 Marcel formed his own business, Encore Electronics. He grew Encore for years, with longtime employees and clients, until he sold the company upon retirement.
He had a passion for tennis at the Eastside Rec courts, competitive sailing on Saratoga Lake, and classic steam trains. He took joy in handball at Kaydeross Park, roller-skating to live organ music, running with the Early Birds, ice boating, bicycling, skiing, horseback riding and more. In the 1960s Marcel formed and mentored a youth YMCA model railroad club. He was a founding member of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club and the Adirondack Live Steam club. He was an active member of the Capital District Model Boat Association and the National Model Railroading Association. Marcel enjoyed attending live music and performance, and once, to our surprise, showed up on the Home Made Theater stage. He liked to help animals, and provided a loving home to many dogs over the years.
Win or lose, Marcel appreciated a game well played - with integrity, honor and good humor. He was generous and fair-minded, with a gentle, loving heart.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a memorial gathering has been delayed. For those who'd like to make a donation in his memory, we suggest the Wilton Wildlife Preserve at wiltonpreserve.org, SmileTrain at smiletrain.org or The Tewecado Trust at tewecado.org.
Robert Moore Ballinger passed away peacefully at the age of eighty‐five on January 24, 2021.
Robert was the son of Winifred Frazer Ballinger and Carl Jay Ballinger, Jr. He is survived by his loving wife of fifty‐six years, Marcella Lemoine Ballinger, his children Robert and Nicole Ballinger, their spouses Robyn Angliss and Peter Warner, his brother Carl Jay Ballinger III, and sister Elizabeth Ballinger, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Robert lived with Marcella at the Cogir of Queen Anne Senior Living Community in Seattle.
Robert was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on October 31, 1935. Grandparents Robert Frazer and Elizabeth Jackson Frazer, who immigrated from Scotland to Hawaii in 1919, played an active role in raising Robert during his early years. To the family, Robert was affectionally known as “Robin.”
One of Robert's early memories was the December 7th attack on Pearl Harbor. His father was a Navy fighter pilot at the time of the attack, already at sail in the Pacific. As his father sailed into the conflict, Robert and his mother evacuated Hawaii on one of the first civilian passages to the mainland to stay with Carl’s parents in Santa Barbara, California. Young Robert helped his mother roll a shipment of bandages for the war effort during the journey.
After the war, Robert lived with his parents at many naval bases across the United States including Pensacola, Florida, St. Simon’s Island, Georgia, and Bremerton, Washington. He attended more than a dozen different grade schools. He was a natural bookworm, and his mother recalled that “he read the encyclopedia, not comics like other kids.” Robert loved building model airplanes. Little brother Jay would sneak in to crash the model planes, and Robin would patiently rebuild them. If a plane was too far gone, Robert would invite Jay to properly blow it up with a few fireworks. In his teens, Robert became a car nut. His prized possession was a beautifully restored and hot rodded ‘34 Ford.
Robert attended the University of Kansas, studying industrial management and serving in the Navy Reserve, where he honed his mechanical skills as a Machinist’s Mate. After graduating in 1958, he started a long and varied career as a draftsman for Sprague Electric in North Adams, Massachusetts. Although quiet and reserved in nature, Robert had an adventurous streak. He learned to fly and raced sports cars in regional events. After his racing partner crashed their Cooper Mini, Robert purchased an old Austin‐Healy 100. It was a perpetual work in progress, but it also added to his bachelor cachet. After moving to Northern New Jersey, he met Marcella Ballinger, an executive administrator at a pharmaceutical company. Family members remember them dating: Robert behind the wheel of the convertible, with a joyful Marcella sitting alongside him, a scarf tied over her strawberry blonde hair. Sparks flew during ski club outings, and they were married on New Year’s Day of 1965. Robert and Marcella started their family with the birth of their son Robert Harry in the next year.
Robert continued his studies, earning a certificate in foreign trade from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Glendale, Arizona. He learned to speak in Spanish, and that led to work as a Latin America sales representative for Walter Kidde & Company. Robert traveled throughout Central America, sometimes bringing Marcella along to explore the region’s magnificent culture. After accepting a new role with Bay Area technology company Systron Donner, they moved to Orinda, California in 1970. Robert and Marcella's daughter Nicole was born there.
Some of Robert’s greatest gifts were his passion for learning and teaching others. In 1973, he earned a Master of Business Administration from California State University at Hayward, and soon after decided to "get out of the rat race" and become a college professor. He became an assistant professor at Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield, Massachusetts in 1973, which meant another move across the country. Robert and Marcella bought a camper truck for the move, which ignited their love for camping and exploring the country. Camping trips with Marcella, the kids and their two Shelties, Puffy and Chico, became something he looked forward to every summer.
Settling into life in the Berkshires, Robert treated his young family to the history and culture of the region, visiting museums, historic sites, and volunteering at the Tanglewood performing arts venue. He spent his summer days on home improvement, and in winter took the kids for ski lessons on the local hill. He drove a Fiat Spider, which was utterly impractical but beautiful to look at and fun to drive. He even tried some ice racing on the deeply frozen local lakes, but not in the Fiat! Moving back east enabled spending more time with Marcella’s extended Lemoine family, who adored his thoughtful and easygoing nature at annual family reunions in Nutley, New Jersey.
After four years at the community college, Robert was
offered a tenure track position at Siena College in
Loudonville, New York. The family moved to Wilton, New
York, near Saratoga Springs. At Siena, Robert loved
teaching International Business, Organizational Relations and Marketing in the small college setting, where he could get to know and mentor his students. He also taught older, non‐traditional students through the Empire State College Center for Distance Learning and was active in the Albany chapter of the World Trade Council.
During these years Robert developed a passion for small boat sailing. He purchased a beautiful wooden Windmill Class sailboat and joined the Kaydeross sailing club on Saratoga Lake, which was adjacent to a popular amusement park. Robert, Marcella, and the kids would pile into the narrow, tippy boat with big sails for hours of summer fun. After capsizing one too many times, Marcella learned that sailing was best observed from shore through binoculars, although she did appreciate that sailing was less dangerous than racing sports cars.
When the Kaydeross club closed, Robert joined the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club and was an active member, eventually holding the post of Club Commodore. The kids crewed for Dad many times during these years, helping him win a few series and when they were old enough, enjoying a cold beer afterward and recounting the day’s adventures. Robert enthusiastically welcomed people to crew with him and loved to share how to fine tune boats for speed. To Robert, fast equaled fun!
Of course, life in New York state also meant contending with long, cold winters and snow. Always a thrifty dad, Robert installed a wood stove to help heat the house. After the boats were put away, he spent fall weekends splitting and chopping wood, enthusiastically waking the sleepy kids up early to help. When winter came, he turned the thermostats down and fed the wood stove. He cheerfully encouraged the kids to get out and shovel snow, even when all agreed it was just too deep and calling for a plow made more sense. Ever open minded and looking for fun on a budget, Robert took a chance on a Subaru four‐wheel‐drive wagon, decades before they became popular. He also discovered cross‐ country skiing and frequently took the family to explore the local golf course and parks on skis. Regardless of the season, Robert loved to be outdoors with his family.
Once the kids were off to college, Robert and Marcella traveled the country in their RV, visiting nearly every state and as many national parks and historic sites as they could. They settled down for a quiet retirement in St Augustine Shores Florida. Robert volunteered at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and was an active member of the St. Augustine Navy League, supporting a Jacksonville‐based squadron. He kept himself fit swimming, walking, and sailing the warm coastal waters on his Hobie Wave, “Risky Business”. Their condo looked out over the intercoastal waterway and he loved to watch the racoons, birds, and alligators from their deck. He had one last sports car there too, a jade green Mazda Miata, which was perfect for exploring the quiet coastal roads.
Robert's long fight with Parkinson’s disease began in Florida, and when health became a concern for both Robert and Marcella, they moved to Seattle in 2012 to be closer to the kids. Robert bravely took on new treatments that allowed him to continue enjoying an active life, exploring the beautiful Queen Anne neighborhood, attending air shows and even trying adaptive sailing and biking. He made many friends among residents and staff of his retirement community. With his bright eyes and warm smile for all, he was loved for his curiosity, wit, and wisdom, and admired for his courageous fight against a cruel and debilitating disease.
Robert's long fight against Parkinson's disease was a daily struggle that he faced bravely, without complaint. Even in the most difficult moments, he would smile and say, “this is better than the alternative.” Although Robert managed to stay a step ahead of Parkinson's for years, its steady advance left him vulnerable to other illnesses. In the end, he succumbed to complications from Covid‐19.
Robert will be missed by all, and we carry his love and many happy memories with us in our hearts.
To honor Robert, donations may be made in his name to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association at: apdaparkinson.org/donate.
Emmett McCarthy Memorial Statement
“In the short run life is a tragedy, In the long run it’s a comedy” That was the Charlie Chaplin quote Emmett would share with me over last year since Lady Jane passed away. Emmet was always ready to tell a joke, create a pun, or sing a song - whatever the occasion or whether appropriate or not!
Emmett’s contribution to the club was significant as a club officer, eventually as Commodore in 2003 & 2004. While serving as an officer he was the coordinator who led our kitchen renovation and created the great space we have today. After serving many years on the Board Emmett was a frequent contributor to the nominating committees. In 2010 Emmett was presented the Mary Elizabeth Hull Award for his many contributions to the club and sailing school. During the last few years Emmett served as the club’s Historian having taken over after Randy Rice’s passing.
During his many years at the club Emmett was one of the first people new members met at the Club. He went out of his way to reach out and introduce himself and took the time to introduce new members to existing members. He was also a great help to the sailing school over the years in a wide variety of roles. For many years he was the registrar along with Mary Kate McCarty and took care of scheduling all of the private lessons. Prior to that he sat on the sailing school committee and was very involved in the development of the adult programs as well as the expansion of the kid’s programs.
Of course, Emmett was a sailor and racer having sailed a Flying Scot, the now infamous “Bad Haggis” and Ensign that he named after his drink of choice “B&B”. He was very active in the Ensign fleet having contributed much to rebuilding of the Gin Poles and participating in every fleet activity. At the time of his passing Emmett was serving as the Ensign Fleet Captain. In addition to his contributions to our club and its members, Emmett enthusiastically participated in the STRIDE sailing program volunteering many hours to young individuals with disabilities providing sailing instruction and fun aboard his Ensign.
The club certainly will not be same without Emmett and if there is an afterlife, I’m sure he is smiling down on us with a main sheet in one hand and a drink in other.
Tony Cannone, Mark Welcome, Allan Miller
Emmett and his “Froggies,” AKA the “BVI Boys”
Emmett spent considerable time with a subgroup of his many friends, known in the club (or in our own minds) as the “BVI Boys,” whom he fondly addressed as the “Froggies.”
Spanning a period from 2004 to 2018, Emmett sailed with this group on numerous “big boat” adventures in the British Virgin Islands, Spanish Virgin Islands, the Bahamas and Narragansett Bay.
Though he missed the trip to St. Martin and St. Barts, his “posse” created photographic “proof” of his presence there. A life size likeness of Emmett’s face, attached to a paint stick, was held over the shoulder of another during many photographs.
Emmett’s “Froggy” friends (Allan Miller, Jim Benson, Mike Funk, Mike Flanigan and Glenn Miner) sailed with him on numerous other occasions in our own Flying Scots and Ensigns in home waters. Several “froggies” last big-boat sailed with Emmett on Narragansett Bay in the summer of 2018, where he very much enjoyed sailing the salty New England waters.
Some background: In 2008, just prior to what was supposed to be Emmett’s 3rd trip to the Caribbean with the “BVI Boys,” he faced a sudden, life threatening, medical issue, which sidelined him to a hospital stay instead. During the trip, on the French side of St. Martin, Emmett’s “posse,” quite possibly fueled by mandatory rations of rum, began speaking in tongues. The Faux French accent which emerged might be described as Inspector Clouseau meets Jacques Cousteau, with a refinement only Pepe Le Pew could bring to the mix. This was practiced long into each evening, mixed, of course, with raucous and mischievous laughter. Upon our return, we quickly shared with Emmett the photographic proof of his “virtual” visit, as well as this new dialect, quite disrespectfully dubbed, “Harbor French,” and spoken “fluently,” of course, only by “Harbor Frogs.” Thenceforth, Emmett fondly addressed our group as “Froggies.”
There are many Emmett stories to recount from these trips. And together, with all his friends and family, when current “social distancing” norms no longer interfere with a proper gathering, we will raise a glass in his honor, and tell “Emmett” stories…..and LAUGH!....(as he would so enjoy us to do).
Sail Fast Brother - Allan, Jim, Mike, Mike & Glenn
Emmett McCarthy, 77, passed away of natural causes at home in Malta on March 6, 2020. He was a beloved father, grandfather, friend, and member of his community. Emmett was born in Somerville, Mass., the son of the late, James and Maureen McCarthy, on January 20, 1943. He and his late wife, Jayne had been residents of Malta since 1990 and had previously lived in Rotterdam for many years while raising their family.
Emmett was a proud Boston College Golden Eagle, class of 1964, was active in the alumni Community and was a member of the Alumni Board. He had a distinguished career with the NYS Department of Social Services. Emmett was active with Big Brothers/Big Sisters and with Pop Warner football, where he was President of Rotterdam Pop Warner, before becoming Game Commissioner for the league.
Emmett always enjoyed the outdoors; you could often find him golfing or cross-country skiing. Most of all, Emmett loved boating. His passion began as a kid when he first learned to sail on Monponsett Pond in Massachusetts. From his first Sunfish, to rowing the Hudson in a currach with the Albany Irish Rowing Club, to hoisting his sails on Saratoga Lake, Emmett's favorite pastime was being on the water. The Saratoga Lake Sailing Club was his second home since 1989, where he served as a board member and Commodore. He loved racing sailboats and volunteered with the STRIDE program, teaching autistic children to sail.
Music was also an important part of Emmett's life. He had a special fondness for classical music and Little Richard. He had an unmatched love for corny jokes and meeting new people. To Emmett, no one was a stranger, only a friend he hadn't met yet.
Emmett is survived by his sons, Brian and his wife Cathleen of Clifton Park, and Christopher of Saratoga Springs. He is also survived by his grandchildren Michelle and Daniel. He was predeceased by his wife of almost 54 years, Jayne (O'Neil) McCarthy and his sister, Anne Discenza of Poquoson, VA. The family will receive visitors on Sunday, March 22, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the William J. Burke & Sons / Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs. A Mass of Resurrection will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, March 23, at St Clement's Church, 231 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs. It will be followed by interment in the family plot at St. Peter's Cemetery and then a reception and celebration of Emmett's life at The Hideaway at Saratoga Lake Golf Club, 35 Grace Moore Rd, Stillwater. For those who wish to make a memorial gift, we would suggest Community Hospice, Inc., the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club, Boston College student scholarships, or any other charity near to your heart.
Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com. Published in The Daily Gazette from Mar. 15 to Mar. 16, 2020
After a long battle with a combination of lung diseases, our beloved Jayne Marie (O'Neil) McCarthy left us on May 19, 2019 after a brief stay at the Hospice Inn of St. Peter's Hospital, Albany.
Jayne was born in Dorchester, Mass., the daughter of James and Dorothy (Delorey) O'Neil on August 21, 1942. She and her husband Emmett had been residents of Malta since 1990 and had previously lived in Rotterdam for many years while raising their family.
Jayne was a Registered Nurse, a graduate of the Catherine Laboure School of Nursing at Carney Hospital, Dorchester, Mass., and specialized in mental health nursing. She began her career with the Veterans' Administration in Brockton, Mass. and then in Albany, NY. After her children were born, she resumed her career, adding studies in counseling and psychology. She then focused on adolescents, working at W.A.I.T.T. Houses in Schenectady and, after adding CASAC certification, at Conifer Park in Glenville and Four Winds in Saratoga. After she left direct clinical care, she later worked for Value Behavioral Health, now Value Options, overseeing mental health care contracts for a number of clients. In addition, Jayne maintained a small private counselling practice, focusing on women's issues. Her goal was always to help people find the strength within themselves to cope and to flourish. These were the same strengths she brought, with love, to her family, her many relatives and friends, and the community.
Jayne will be missed by her many friends at the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club, where she was a member for 30 years, and by her "sisters" in the Saratoga Trunkettes, a group of women involved in fund-raising fashion shows and community events for social service organizations.
Jayne loved to travel, especially on cruise ships, and to visit her children and grandchildren, wherever they were in the world at the time. From London to Paris to Kyoto to her beloved Bermuda, Jayne always wanted to explore, learn, and taste new cultures and bring them back to share with others. In addition, she loved her home overlooking Round Lake and loved to entertain. Her dinner parties, marking holidays, birthdays, and family events, were hosted with the elegance, grace and humor that were Jayne's hallmarks.
Jayne is survived by Emmett, her husband of almost 54 years, her sons Brian and his wife Cathleen of Clifton Park, and Christopher of Saratoga Springs. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren Michelle and Daniel. In addition, she is survived by her sisters Nancy Popsuj and husband Al of Westborough, Mass., and Barbara Hill and her husband Frank of Norwell, Mass. as well as numerous relatives and friends. She was also predeceased by her godson, Scott Popsuj, of Northbridge, Mass.
While we cannot sufficiently thank all those who helped care for Jayne during her illness, we would be remiss if we did not particularly note the staff of the Hospice Inn at St. Peter's Hospital. In addition to their consummate professionalism and dignity, warmth, care and love they showed to Jayne and her family must be acknowledged with deep appreciation. For those who wish to make a memorial gift, we would suggest Community Hospice, Inc., Ronald McDonald House of Albany, or a charity that is near to your heart.
WYNANTSKILL Howard E. Ghee, 90, passed away on Saturday, October 12, 2019, at Samaritan Hospital. Born in Poughkeepsie, he was the son of Clarence Ghee and Charlotte Zettl Ghee; and the loving husband of Janis Martin Ghee. Howard served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He worked for New York Telephone as a phone engineer for thirty five years retiring in 1990.
Howard was an avid sailor and member of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club for 45 years.
In addition to his wife Janis, Howard is survived by his two sons, Howard (Albert Chin) Ghee Jr. of Woodbridge, Va., and Terry (Lisa) Ghee of St. Leonard, Md.; his grandchildren, Maureen Ghee and Aidan Ghee; and his brother Robert (Terri) Ghee of Pleasant Valley, N.Y. The family wishes to send special thanks to Anna Feldman, R.N. and Dr. William T. Robinson for their support and care.
Family and friends are invited and may call from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16, at the Wynantskill Funeral Home, 294 Whiteview Road, Wynantskill. Burial with military honors will be 12 p.m. on Thursday, October 17, at the Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville. Family and friends will meet at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home for procession to the cemetery.
Raise a pint of Guiness to remember Howard. Memorial contributions in memory of Howard may be made to Capital City Rescue Mission, 259 S. Pearl Street, Albany, NY, 12202 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital stjude.org/donate. Please visit www.wynantskillfh.com.
Charles Kite, 69, of Menands, formerly of Loudonville, died at home Friday, January 4, 2019, after a brief illness. Born August 15, 1949, in Montreal, Canada, he was the son of the late William Casper Kite Jr., M.D. and Dorothy-Ann “Dottie Ann” (Havener) Kite. He was the beloved husband of Tara Ann Lindsley, Ph.D. He graduated from McGill University in 1971 with a B.S. in chemistry and psychology and was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1972, during the Vietnam War. Despite dual citizenship, he chose to serve and was assigned as an analytical chemist in the Chemical Core at Edgewood Arsenal in Maryland. After an honorable discharge in 1974, he pursued his calling as a physician. He earned his M.D. at Albany Medical College, graduating in 1978, and stayed to complete an internship in surgery and a residency in neurosurgery. Dr. Kite served as chief resident in 1982-83, and as a research fellow in 1983-86. He was board certified in neurosurgery in 1986. Dr. Kite began his professional career in Albany in private neurosurgery practice with his father from 1984. After his father retired in 1989, he broadened his skills with a clinical research fellowship in neurosurgery at New York University, New York City in 1991-92. He earned an M.B.A. from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, in 1994 and was a valued business associate and advisor at Albany Cytopath Labs, Inc., Latham, until the company sold in 2007. Dr. Kite pursued a second professional calling later in life, educating the next generation of physicians. He became a respected faculty member in the anatomy program at Albany Medical College, teaching anatomy to first-year medical students from 1995 until his death. He and wife, Tara, met while both were teaching in the anatomy labs in 1999, and they married at First Presbyterian Church of Albany in 2001. He had a deep love for his wife and they enjoyed teaching together for 20 years. Dr. Kite’s students will remember him as an enthusiastic
clinician-teacher who used Socratic methods to prepare them for their responsibility to patients who would one day seek their care. Dr. Kite was a long-time member of Albany’s Fort Orange Club, joining in 1976. He was an avid sailor who loved taking
friends and family on long adventurous sails throughout the Northeast, Caribbean and Saratoga Lake. He was a familiar sight on Saratoga Lake, rowing his wooden dory or taking his grandchildren tubing behind his motor boat. Dr. Kite was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Albany and an ordained deacon and elder.
An outspoken advocate for social justice, he supported Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood, FOCUS Churches, and the American Civil Liberties Union. Dr. Kite is survived by his loving wife, Tara Ann Lindsley; three brothers, William (Margo) Casper Kite III of Lincolnton, Ga., Thomas (Robin) Morgans Kite of Panama City, Fla., and John (Stephanie) Taylor Kite of Slingerlands; three children from his previous marriage to Virginia Kite Miller, Charles (Trisha) Havener Kite, Jr. of Loudonville, Seth (Jessica) Bandel Kite of Grinnell, Iowa, and Heidi (Michael) Kite Dimino of Cohoes; two stepchildren, Colin Lindsley Fletcher of Hillsborough, N.J. and Paige Lindsley Fletcher (fiance John Patrick Fitzgerald) of Boston, Mass.; seven grandchildren, Kaylee, Mason, Evan, Louis, Arianna, Thomas and Serafina; beloved nieces and nephews; and life-long friends, Mark Lamar, George (Chip) and Elizabeth (Liz) Hempstead, and Rance McKenna. A Service of Witness to the Resurrection will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 20, 2019, at First Presbyterian Church, 362 State St., in Albany. Those wishing to share memories of Charlie with family and friends are invited to a reception in the fellowship hall of the church following the service. An elevator is accessible from the parking lot on State Street for visitors with disabilities. Others are encouraged to park in Washington Park. In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations in Dr. Kite’s memory to First Presbyterian Church of Albany (firstpresalbany.org) or to SailingHeals.org
We met Dave and the Hidinger family at SLSC. They were well established members and very much involved with the success of the club. This history may not be totally accurate here but my recollections are that Dave and Jan sailed an International 14 for a time but when the club made the transition to Manning Cove, they moved to a Kestrel. I got more familiar with his expertise sailing against him in Lasers and he was clearly one of the best in the club. I believe Jan had a Laser also and was one of the first women in the club to sail singlehanded.
Dave’s talents and knowledge extended to his service as a club officer and eventually Commodore in 1975. He was part of the transition team that moved the club from Kaydeross Park to our present location. The club records show he was Rear Commodore in 1973, the first year at Manning Cove. At that time the property suffered from many years of deferred maintenance. The road was barely one car wide, with many overhanging branches. The waterfront was so overgrown with trees and bushes that it was difficult to see the lake from the lower lawn. Dave was in charge of clearing this jungle, the first step to the wider road and lake views that we have now. He was Vice Commodore in 1974.In 1975 he was the third Commodore at the new location. As was the case with all our leadership during that building period, he led us through the challenges well.
Dave’s support and help got me interested in serving the club also. Sometime in that period, Dave wrote an article he called the Winds of Saratoga. It was the product of his astute observations and analysis of the wind characteristics on the lake. That article was a great help to learning the lake for racing and it was a source of review each year before the racing season to get ready to race against and with him. This is where the memories get a little less clear but our families both skied also. I think Dave and the family were also among the people that introduced us to Hickory Ski Center. This was a place that always seemed like the winter residence of many club members and had that same kind of feel where the contributions of all the members like Dave made it run successfully. Our final commonality was that we both worked for Knoll Atomic Power Laboratory and while we had many good conversations about the place, nothing can be repeated here because it was all classified.
Dave and the family are among the longest member families in our club. The character of our organization today is in part a result of the contributions he made to it.
--- Allan Miller and John Hudson
David E. Hidinger, 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 25, 2017 at Ellis Hospital, surrounded by his family after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. Born on September 5, 1939 in Richardsville, PA, the son of the late George W. and Gertrude A. Shaffer Hidinger.
Dave received his Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State. Dave retired in 2011 after 47 years as an Engineer from Knoll's Atomic Power Lab (KAPL). He was a long time member and past Commodore of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club. Dave loved to fish, skiing & sailing.
Dave is survived by his loving wife, Janet Barlow Hidinger; sons, Michael and Kevin Hidinger; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters, Audrey J. Foulks, Mona J. Dodds James and Ardeth D. Grunst.
A private burial for Dave will be held at the convenience of the family at Memory Garden's, Albany.
Memorial donations can be made to Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson's, 4730 Table Mesa Drive, Suite J-200, Boulder, CO. 80305 or to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, P.O. Box, 5014, Hagerstown, MD, 21741.
To leave a special message for the family, please visit NewComerAlbany.com.
Eleanor "Elly" Lennie Corneilson Rice:
Elly Rice was a part of our club that represented all the things we truly love about SLSC. From the early days of our membership, it seemed that there were some families that helped new members feel they were part of the club, no matter what your background or boat you sailed. Elly and the Rice family were this kind of family. It didn’t seem long after we joined that we were taken under Elly’s wing. She helped us become more active in the governance of the club. Elly always seemed involved in how the club ran. We had many meetings and although some were held at the homes of different members, the ones I really remember were the ones at her home “the Rice Paddy”.
In 1976, I was on the board and was nominated for Commodore. The thought in my mind was who might be the best person in the club for Vice Commodore. The answer was clear to me that Elly’s knowledge of the club, her good sense and open mindedness and her easy going personality was a great fit. This worked out perfectly and in 1978, Elly became our first woman Commodore and, most importantly, had the first budget at the new location that actually had a positive cash flow.
Several years later, Elly came to the club to propose a donation in honor of her mother that would be used for the purchase of boats for the sailing school. The result was that the club obtained five Windmill Class boats that for many years served as the principal boat used for our school and the boat on which many members had their first sailing experiences.
For as long as I can remember, Randy was club historian. I wasn’t totally sure but suspected it was Elly’s organizational skills that helped Randy keep track of the club’s history. They certainly had great stories of the club’s earliest years (even when there were powerboats) and how the club went to Kaydeross Park, then Manning Cove.
Barbara and I had many good times with Elly and Randy going out to dinners along with the Goldstein’s and Henkes’ and sailing on Lake George in the Greenwich 24. In the history of our club, the Rice family, Elly, Randy, Lisa and Linda will be forever remembered as an important part of what makes SLSC so special to so many of us.
Allan Miller
Rice, Eleanor C. COLONIE Eleanor "Elly" Lennie Corneilson Rice, 87, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, January 8, 2017. Born in Brooklyn, she was the daughter of Thomas Rubelle and Eleanor Pollard Corneilson. Eleanor's family moved to Albany in 1939. She graduated from Albany High School and earned her bachelor's degree from Guilford College in 1950, where she was president of the Women's Student Government and was certified to teach French and Spanish in High School. She earned a master's degree from S.U.N.Y. Albany in 1952. That same year, Eleanor began a long respected career as an elementary school teacher in the newly formed North Colonie School System. She spent the majority of her career teaching at Southgate School in Latham, retiring in 1993. In addition to her teaching curriculum, Mrs. Rice enjoyed sharing her American Indian heritage, directing student plays and hosting a class picnic at her home each spring. She also served on various committees, working with the school system and the teacher's union. Always the teacher, Eleanor's legacy will be her commitment to educating, guiding and supporting children as they matured into productive, compassionate adults. Eleanor was raised in the Society of Friends (Quaker) and was an active member of First Presbyterian Church in Albany, where she was part of the Willett Players Theater Group and served as a deacon and elder. Eleanor and her family spent most summers in Savannah, Ga. visiting her grandparents. With an American Indian background, as a child and young adult, Eleanor had to deal with some of the prejudice and restrictions imposed on "non-white" people. However, she embraced her American Indian heritage and enjoyed educating others about Native Americans. As an adult, Eleanor continued her involvement at Guilford College by serving as a member of the Alumni Board. She was very pleased both daughters chose to attend Guilford and remain active. In 1954, Eleanor and Randall H. Rice (deceased) met and were married at First Presbyterian Church, beginning a 59 year marriage full of love and warmth. They were wonderful parents to their two daughters, providing love, guidance and joy in their home. This joy spread to their sons-in-law and grandchildren. They were the proud owners of The Rice Paddy, an 1830 farmhouse and land which they restored, expanded and cared for with love. They hosted neighborhood picnics, Halloween parties, holiday events, wedding receptions, gatherings for her school and their churches, and opened their home to friends in transition. They cherished their Henkes Road neighbors who were like family for over 60 years. Elly and Randy enjoyed traveling across the U.S. visiting family and friends, Europe and many wonderful trips to the Caribbean. Elly adopted her husband's love of sailing, crewing for him on "Puff," their windmill sailboat. She was a very active member of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club and served as the first female commodore in 1978 and 1979. She was surprised and delighted when the family was recently honored with the establishment of the "Rice Racing Series" at S.L.S.C. Elly also enjoyed sailing and overnight trips on Lake George on their boat, the "Step Two." Eleanor was the loving mother to Lisa Helene Rice Hayes and her husband, Richard B. Hayes of Maryland and Linda Susan Rice Thorup and her husband, Donald W. Thorup III of North Carolina; devoted grandmother of Alexander Randall Thorup (fiance, Lauren), Anna Elizabeth Thorup and Ethan Dettmar Hayes; loving sister to Janice Corneilson Warner and her late husband, Robert C. Warner and their two daughters and families.
Eleanor Rice Obituary Notice: Eleanor Rice’s Obituary by the Albany Times Union. Page 1 of 1
Eleanor C. "Elly" Rice Rice, Eleanor C. COLONIE Eleanor "Elly" Lennie Corneilson Rice, 87, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, January 8, 2017. Born in Brooklyn, she was the daughter of Thomas Rubelle and Eleanor Pollard Corneilson. Eleanor's family moved to Albany in 1939. She graduated from Albany High School and earned her bachelor's degree from Guilford College in 1950, where she was president of the Women's Student Government and was certified to teach French and Spanish in High School. She earned a master's degree from S.U.N.Y. Albany in 1952. That same year, Eleanor began a long respected career as an elementary school teacher in the newly formed North Colonie School System. She spent the majority of her career teaching at Southgate School in Latham, retiring in 1993. In addition to her teaching curriculum, Mrs. Rice enjoyed sharing her American Indian heritage, directing student plays and hosting a class picnic at her home each spring. She also served on various committees, working with the school system and the teacher's union. Always the teacher, Eleanor's legacy will be her commitment to educating, guiding and supporting children as they matured into productive, compassionate adults. Eleanor was raised in the Society of Friends (Quaker) and was an active member of First Presbyterian Church in Albany, where she was part of the Willett Players Theater Group and served as a deacon and elder. Eleanor and her family spent most summers in Savannah, Ga. visiting her grandparents. With an American Indian background, as a child and young adult, Eleanor had to deal with some of the prejudice and restrictions imposed on "non-white" people. However, she embraced her American Indian heritage and enjoyed educating others about Native Americans. As an adult, Eleanor continued her involvement at Guilford College by serving as a member of the Alumni Board. She was very pleased both daughters chose to attend Guilford and remain active. In 1954, Eleanor and Randall H. Rice (deceased) met and were married at First Presbyterian Church, beginning a 59 year marriage full of love and warmth. They were wonderful parents to their two daughters, providing love, guidance and joy in their home. This joy spread to their sons-in-law and grandchildren. They were the proud owners of The Rice Paddy, an 1830 farmhouse and land which they restored, expanded and cared for with love. They hosted neighborhood picnics, Halloween parties, holiday events, wedding receptions, gatherings for her school and their churches, and opened their home to friends in transition. They cherished their Henkes Road neighbors who were like family for over 60 years. Elly and Randy enjoyed traveling across the U.S. visiting family and friends, Europe and many wonderful trips to the Caribbean. Elly adopted her husband's love of sailing, crewing for him on "Puff," their windmill sailboat. She was a very active member of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club and served as the first female commodore in 1978 and 1979. She was surprised and delighted when the family was recently honored with the establishment of the "Rice Racing Series" at S.L.S.C. Elly also enjoyed sailing and overnight trips on Lake George on their boat, the "Step Two." Eleanor was the loving mother to Lisa Helene Rice Hayes and her husband, Richard B. Hayes of Maryland and Linda Susan Rice Thorup and her husband, Donald W. Thorup III of North Carolina; devoted grandmother of Alexander Randall Thorup (fiance, Lauren), Anna Elizabeth Thorup and Ethan Dettmar Hayes; loving sister to Janice Corneilson Warner and her late husband, Robert C. Warner and their two daughters and families. The family wishes to thank the aides from Interim HealthCare and close neighbors and friends who have provided dedicated and compassionate care for many years. A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 326 State St., Albany, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 4. A calling hour will precede the service from 10 a.m. Following the service, interment will take place in Albany Rural Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to First Presbyterian Church, 326 State St., Albany, NY 12210, Guilford College, 5800 W. Friendly Ave., Greensboro, NC 27410 or the American Indian College Fund, 8333 Greenwood Blvd., Denver, CO 80221. To express online condolences, please visit sbfuneralhome.com.
Funeral Home Tebbutt and Frederick Memorial Home 633 Central Avenue Albany, NY 12206 (518) 489-4454 Published in Albany Times Union from Jan. 25 to Feb. 2, 2017
Hunter Currin: January 4, 2017
Hunter Currin left this planet today, after 79 years; it is a better place by his being here. He has been many things to many people- a mentor, a father, a scientist, a sailor, a runner, a survivor.
As St. Paul said, "He fought the good fight; he ran the good race." Even terminally ill, he approached life with grace, humor, clarity, and a total absence of self-pity.
So, we at Saratoga Lake Sailing Club will miss him. But how can you mourn a full life well lived? He travelled to every continent, and brought back pictures and insights. He raised exceptional children. He mentored people from all over this earth, and maybe brought us just a little bit closer. And we thank him for that.
When Hunter was diagnosed with leukemia and was near death, he underwent a series of treatments at Albany Medical Center, with the outcome definitely uncertain. But Hunter blogged of his experiences, with a clear-eyed reality, never self pitying, hopeful but realistic, and gave the rest of us a lesson in fighting, surviving, and thriving.
Hunter was an SLSC member for over 45 years, and served in many ways: Commodore in '81 and '90; Treasurer in the 90's for many years, and photographer of events large and small, He was generous of both material things and of spirit, so remember, the next time you are warmed by the fireplace in the Trophy Room, it was Hunter's gift that made this possible.
"Spa Sailr" and "Spa Sailr 2" are the license plates- one on the roadster, one on the van- and they sum it up: a Saratogian, a sailor (both in the Kestrel Dawn Treader and the Ensign Dawn Treader 2- names from CS Lewis' Narnia Chronicles), and a presence- with a word, a suggestion, and a place in the very fiber of SLSC.
Respectfully,
Emmett McCarthy
SLSC Historian
Hunter B. Currin
November 15, 1937 - January 4, 2017
Saratoga Springs, NY - Hunter Bailey Currin, 79, died peacefully at his home, after a long illness, on January 4, 2017 surrounded by his family. Hunter was born in 1937 in Simcoe, Ontario Canada to Bailey Owen Currin of Oxford, North Carolina (d. 1954) and Katherine Elizabeth Currin (Boles) of Leamington, Ontario Canada (d. 1992).
Hunter is survived by his partner, Ellie Elletson. Hunter and Ellie shared a great love. Their desire to share their lives transcended any distance. Together they traveled to the gardens of London and just last summer they travelled across Canada by train. Hunter is also survived by his sister, Rebecca Elgie (Bernie Fetterly) of Ithaca, NY, who spent a great deal of time with him in Saratoga after he became ill in 2011, his children, Cailie Currin of Jackson, NY and her wife, Margaret Jones, Zan Currin of Waterloo, IA (Marc Willet, 1976-2013), and Chad Currin and his wife, Lisa Bonacquist Currin; three grandchildren, Sydney Boles, Marley Bonacquist Currin and Biruk Currin.
He is also survived by several nephews and nieces, including Christine Elgie who provided much appreciated support, guidance and technical assistance in caring for Hunter, and her sister Tara Elgie, as well as Ellie's large family for whom he felt great affection. Having hosted a number of international students and teachers, many around the world call him "Dad." His family was devoted to him and he was devoted to them, a gift none of them took for granted.
Hunter graduated from University of Toronto in 1960 with a degree in Engineering Physics. He and his former wife and mother of his three children Catharine (Cathie) Currin, left southern Ontario after completing university to make their lives and raise their family in the US, first in Pittsburgh PA, where Hunter obtained a MS in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear from University of Pittsburgh, and thereafter in Glenville, NY. Hunter was an engineer at Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory (KAPL), but to say that is where he worked for 46 years understates the importance of his work to him. Had his health not forced his retirement, he would have happily worked until he took his last breath: Hunter loved the work he did and the people he worked with. He missed both every single day of his retirement. He attended and enjoyed regular luncheons for KAPL retirees, though he would always have preferred to be working.
Hunter's family and work were very important to him, but he had many other interests as well. Hunter was a long-time Unitarian Universalist and member of the Unitarian Universalist Society of Saratoga Springs, where he served in several leadership roles. He was an avid sailor and member of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club (SLSC), serving as Commodore multiple times. He was a runner and member of the Saratoga Stryders. He ran in 15 marathons and many shorter running races. He loved the Saratoga Film Forum. He also loved to travel. He visited every continent and could speak with passion about each trip Born: November 15, 1937 Death: January 4, 2017 he took. He was a talented photographer and took pictures as he travelled through life and around the world. Hunter passed on his love of travel by taking each of his grandchildren on a trip as they turned 14: Sydney and Hunter went on a Garrison Keillor cruise to Norway, he and Marley took a river cruise in eastern Europe, and, most recently, Biruk and Hunter went on a trip to Austin Texas for a Formula One race.
Hunter's philosophy of life was that it is richer with people in it.
In each of his interests, he found ways to be a part of a community. Everywhere he went, whether around town or while traveling abroad, he sought to find and build connections with people. He will be missed by the many communities he was a part of, and they came to him in his final days and hours to support him and show him their love.
Hunter's family wishes to thank all those at New York Oncology and Hematology. Every single person: the receptionists at the beginning of each appointment, the medical assistants, the nurses, the doctors and nurse practitioners, through to the schedulers that closed each visit all treated him with great kindness and respect. Community Hospice made his last days as comfortable as possible and all of his hospice caregivers were wonderful to him and the family. He received compassionate care at both Albany Medical Center and Saratoga Hospital. A serious illness of a family member is a hard thing to go through and all these professionals made it easier for the family in big and, often more important, small ways.
A memorial service will be held at the Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church on January 13, 2017 at 2:00 pm, followed immediately by a reception at the same location. Burial will be private, with no graveside service. In the spring, a celebration of his life will be held at SLSC, a beautiful location he always selected for important events.
On June 4, 2017, Hunter's daughter, Cailie, will ride her bicycle 72 miles around Lake Tahoe with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training in loving memory of her father. Donations can be made to http://pages.teamintraining.org/vtnt/ambbr17/CCurrin.
Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518-584-5373). Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Richard (Dick) Blackmer passed away peacefully at the Glendale Home, Glenville, NY on November 17, 2016. He was 86.
The son of Geraldine and Hardin Blackmer, Dick was born in Klamath Falls, Oregon, and later moved with the family to Redwood City, California. He attended Stanford University and graduated in 1951. While in college, he earned membership in Phi Beta Kappa and Tau Beta Pi. After graduating from college, Dick was hired by General Electric. There he participated in various advanced and creative engineering programs and was appointed engineering manager for the Gemini Space Craft Fuel Cell System. Later, while with the medical development operation at GE, he worked on the development of membrane oxygen enrichers. He held numerous patents through GE and privately. Subsequently, Dick was co-founder of the Oxygen Enrichment Company (OECO) located on Maxon Road in Schenectady. This company, through a license from GE, manufactured machines which provided moist, oxygen-rich air to the homebound who needed supplemental oxygen.
Over the years, Dick was an active member in community organizations including Rotary, the Schenectady Light Opera Company and the committee to develop the Mohawk Bicycle Trail. He was also a leader with the Boy Scouts, Alplaus Troop 36. As a longtime member of the First Reformed Church of Schenectady, he served as a Senior Elder and chair of the building and grounds committee.
Dick enjoyed adventure and the outdoors, camping, bow and arrow hunting, white water canoeing, windsurfing and skiing with family and friends. Richard was a longtime member of Saratoga Lake Sailing Club. He also enjoyed music, from jazz to opera, and dancing with the Benedicts Dance Club.
Surviving Dick are his wife, Roberta; their children, Paul (Pamela) Blackmer, John Blackmer and Julia (Gerald) Brannon; and his brother, David. He has five grandchildren and a step-granddaughter, of whom he was very fond.
The family wishes to thank the people at Glendale Home who cared lovingly for Dick for nearly two years
I am sorry to report that Jim Ferris, a long time member of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club, has passed away. His son-in-law, member Garrett Hamlin, provided the following tribute to Jim.
After a valiant five year battle with Alzheimer's, Jim died peacefully on March 4th. Jim was a distinguished chemistry scholar and researcher at RPI studying the Origins of Life. Jim loved chemistry, travel, and sailing. Jim's first sailboat was an abandoned Sneakbox that he rebuilt and sailed as a youth on Long Beach Island (NJ). He raced Lightning's on Sacandaga Lake, owning two beautiful early wooden boats named Adenine and Poly U. (Both boats were named after the chemical building blocks of life in the pre-biotic world that Jim studied in his laboratory.) He joined the Saratoga Sailing Club as a Flying Scot sailor, and later sailed an Ensign, Poly U-II, with his wife Susan Shipherd, daughter Laura Ferris and son-in-law Garrett Hamlin. Jim spent many happy hours at the Sailing Club enjoying the competition of the race course and camaraderie of good friends. His humble spirit, easy going nature, and quick sense of humor remained with him through his final days.
Jim's obituary can be seen here:
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/timesunion-albany/obituary.aspx?n=james-pferris&pid=178032360
Members who wish to share their personal remembrances of Jim are welcome to send them to me for posting on our website.
Mark Welcome
John H. Adams
A Memorial Statement
When SLSC changed venue from Kaydeross park to our present Melander location in 1973. It was, in a sense, a rebirth. New quarters, a new spirit, and unlimited opportunities for growth and service to sailors of the area.
By happenchance or otherwise one of the first members to join the reborn club that year was John H. Adams. But it wasn't just John; he brought his whole family - those who remained after the earlier death of his wife, Betty. Two sons, Steve and Jim, and a daughter Christine.
However, in taking up sailing, John, the compleat outdoorsman, never gave up his first love climbing mountains. I believe he belonged to an informal club in New Hampshire 'whose motto was " Climb a mountain a day"!
It’s been 19 years since John joined SLSC and in the early years John and Steve alternated skipper/crew jobs in Jet#46I. As Steve grew up, John continued to be a vital member of the Jet-14 fleet with other crews.
But it was John’s other nature to simply find things that needed to be done and with no fanfare, to do them - Bristol fashion! And it was certainly the good fortune of Commodore Elly Rice when John agreed to serve as Flag Lieutenant:House. "This Old House" became “Our Own Home”!
John didn't indulge in much loose conversation, but when he did say something it was worthwhile and to the point. A cheery smile accentuated that point.
One member described John as 'A gentleman participant”!
John was physically a tall person: however, in the hearts of Saratoga Lake Sailing Club he was a giant in every dimension.
A good sailor; a good friend; we will miss him.
Randall H. Rice Historian: 1992
Robert Berry
Robert Wade Berry, 74, of Burgess, Virginia, passed away Sunday, March 25, 2012 after a brief illness. He was born to the late Frank and Georgette Berry, October 11, 1937 in Clarksburg, WV.
He graduated from Mt. Vernon High School in 1956, and married Mary Jewell Sapp in 1960. He received a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Indiana Institute of Technology in 1964. He completed the Columbia University Executive Program in Business Administration in 1978. He served three years of active duty in the US Navy and retired as a Commander from the Naval Reserve after 31 years of service. Bob was an active parishioner of St. Paul Catholic Church, Hague, VA. . He worked for the General Foods Corporation from 1965 to 1990. He held management positions in Battle Creek, MI and Saratoga Springs, NY, and the last position held was Plant Manager of the Carton and Container Operation in Saratoga Springs. After retiring, he opened and operated a successful machine shop in Ballston Spa, NY. After closing the machine shop in 1996, he and his wife Mary retired to the Northern Neck of Virginia to enjoy sailing on the Chesapeake Bay. He was an active member of the Rappahannock Pistol and Rifle Club and served as their president. He was also an active member of the Northern Neck Sailing Association. His favorite past times included shooting trap, sailing, and metalworking. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Mary, two daughters, Bronwyn (Brian) Craig of Glen Cove, New York and Paige (Bradley) Allen of Albany, New York, dear cousins Maurice Bouffioux of Dayton, OH, Barbara Comer and Margaret Knight of Clarksburg, WV, other cousins, many nieces and nephews, countless friends and his dog, Indy, a constant companion.
The family wishes to thank John Miller, MD, and the nurses and staff at the Riverside Cancer Center in Gloucester for their kindness and care during his illness. In addition, the family would like to thank everyone associated with Riverside Hospice in Tappahannock for their gracious and gentle care given him during the last days of his life. The family will receive friends on Sunday evening, April 1st, at the Faulkner Family Funeral Home, 14476 Northumberland Highway, Burgess, Virginia, from 6:00pm – 7:00pm. A wake service will follow. A funeral Mass will take place Monday, April 2nd at 11:00 am at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 7070 Nomini Hall Rd, Hague, VA. Burial will take place at the Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, NY at a
time yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. Paul’s Parish Building Fund, PO Box 65, Hague, Virginia 32469 or to Riverside Hospice Tappahannock, 618 Hospital Rd. Tappahannock, Virginia, 22560. Online remembrances may be made at faulknerfamilyfuneralhome.com
Robert Wade Berry
Robert Wade Berry, 74, of Burgess, VA, passed away March 25, 2012 after a brief illness. He was born to the late Frank and Georgette Berry, October 11, 1937 in Clarksburg, WV. He graduated from Mt. Vernon (OH) High School in 1956, and married Mary Jewell Sapp in 1960. He received a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Indiana Institute of Technology in 1964 and completed the Columbia University Executive Program in Business Administration in 1978. He served three years of active duty as an officer in the U.S. Navy and retired as Commander after 28 years of reserve duty.
During Bob’s 25-year career with the General Foods Corporation, he held management positions in Battle Creek, MI and Saratoga Springs, finishing his career as Plant Manager of the Carton and Container Operation in Saratoga Springs. During his time as Plant Manager, he served on the Saratoga Springs Planning Board and also served as chairman of the Friends of Scouting annual dinner and fundraiser. Bob’s hobbies and interests were reflected in many forms. A skilled carpenter and machinist, upon corporate retirement he opened and operated a successful machine shop in Ballston Spa. He was an active member of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club, where he raced with his friends in the Thistle class and served as Commodore of the club in 1988. His competitive spirit could also be found on Lake George, where he enjoyed racing his J29. After closing the machine shop in 1996, he and Mary retired to Burgess, VA to enjoy sailing on the
Chesapeake Bay and where he became an active member of the Northern Neck Sailing Association. Bob also renewed his interest in shooting trap and was an active member of the Rappahannock Pistol and Rifle Club where he served as President. He was a certified NRA firearms instructor, and provided instruction on safe firearm handling and operation. Bob was a parishioner of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Hague, VA.
He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Mary, two daughters, Bronwyn (Brian) Craig of Glen Cove, NY and Paige (Bradley) Allen of Albany, NY, many cousins, nieces and nephews, countless friends, and his dog, Indy, a constant companion.
The family wishes to thank the Riverside Cancer Center in Gloucester, VA for their kindness and care during his illness. In addition, the family would like to thank Riverside Hospice in Tappahannock, VA for their gracious and gentle care given to Bob during the last days of his life.
A wake and funeral mass were held in Burgess. A committal service will take place at the Saratoga National Cemetery on May 7, 2012 at 3:00pm. Following the service, family and friends are invited to celebrate Bob’s life at the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. Paul’s Parish Building Fund, PO Box 65, Hague, VA 32469 or to Riverside Hospice Tappahannock, 618 Hospital Rd.
Tappahannock, VA 22560.
Remembrances of Robert Berry from David K. Hudson
Bob was a keen competitor on the water, sailing regularly and keeping the Thistle fleet strong. Off the water, Bob and Mary were always part of the social scene attending all the social events, large and small.
Bob's most significant contribution to the club would have to be the work he did with me to install the first crane. Bob was instrumental in securing the engineering, permitting and contractor for the crane foundation. We got the first chain hoist through Bob’s contacts from his General Foods job. Bob's skill with all things mechanical, as well as his business experience, is what made the installation of the crane possible. The addition of the crane is what made it possible for the Flying Scot fleet to exist at SLSC.
Bob was also known for always having a good story to tell from his Navy days, entertaining us after Sunday racing was over.
Remembrances of Skipper Bob Berry
by Lois Haignere
In 1983, in response to my “experienced Thistle crew available” bulletin board notice, Bob invited me to crew with him and his daughter Brandy, which I did for several seasons. I discovered right away that Bob possessed three qualities that made him an ideal skipper: he was a good competitive sailor, he didn’t blame his crew when things went wrong, and he always remained calm (well, almost always). He was also a good teacher who encouraged me to take‐the‐tiller, building my confidence that, I too, could skipper. Off the water or on, as all of you know, Bob was a no‐pretenses class act.
Sail on Skipper
Patricia Regan Bianchini, Esq.
January 21, 1961 - May 10, 2014
Saratoga Springs, NY - Patricia Regan Bianchini, Esq., age 53, went to be with her Lord and Savior, on May 10, 2014. She was at home surrounded by her loving family and friends. Patricia lived by the motto ”Serve the Lord through serving others”.
Patricia was born on January 21, 1961 in New Jersey to Barbara and Daniel Regan. She graduated early and with Honors from Jackson Township High School. In 1981 she married the love of her life, Anthony Bianchini, to whom she was married for 32 years. She lived in NJ until 1989 when she moved to Saratoga Springs.
Patricia graduated with a BA in Social Studies, Summa Cum Laude, from SUNY Albany, where she was also a member of the Golden Key International Honor Society. She went on to get her Juris Doctor (JD) at Albany Law School, Union College in 1999.
While in Law School, Patricia won the “Best Individual Advocate Award” in the Gabrielli Appellate Advocacy Competition. Patricia became of member of the New York Bar in 2000. She served on the Board of Directors of the Alpha Pregnancy Center, was President of the Board of Directors of the Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services, and was an avid public speaker. For 15 years she coached mock trial teams in area high schools. Before becoming an attorney, Patricia taught Social Studies for two years at Schenectady Christian School. Prior to that, she had been an IV Pharmacy Technician and she catered and baked professionally. She was currently in the process of writing a Christian inspirational book.
Patricia’s other interests included traveling, photography, running, entertaining and baking “the world’s greatest chocolate chip cookies”. She also enjoyed spending time at her “home away from home”, The Old Key West Resort at Disneyworld, with her sister and brother- in- law, Teresa and Dwayne Powell. Patricia’s greatest passion was serving others, whether it be through her unmatched dedication to her clients or simply a kind word to a stranger.
Survivors include her devoted and loving husband, Anthony Bianchini, and her son, Gregory Daniel Bianchini, both of Saratoga Springs.
A service in her memory will be held on Friday, May 16, 2014, 7:00 PM at Grace Fellowship Church at Saratoga, 165 High Rock Ave., Saratoga Springs.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Waterford Wesleyan Church, 75 Grace
St., Waterford, NY 12188, Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga
Springs, NY 12866 or St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN
38105.
The family would like to thank Dr. Rufus Collea and his staff at NY Oncology and Hematology Group for their love and care.
Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs.
Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Patricia Regan Bianchini
SLSC Commodore’s Ball 2010
Patricia Regan Bianchini
SLSC Awards Banquet 2010
Frederick W. Burgess III
Burgess, Frederick W. III COHOES Frederick W. Burgess, III, 69, formerly of Latham, died peacefully shortly before his 70th birthday on Friday evening, February 8, 2013 at his home with his beloved wife Sharon at his side. Born in Brooklyn on February 26,
1943, he was the son of the late Frederick W. and Helen Doris Burgess. Fred was raised in Floral Park, N.Y. and was a 1960 graduate of Sewanhaka High School. He was a US Air Force veteran from 1963-1966 and served for one year in Thailand during the Vietnam War. He graduated from SUNY Stony Brook in 1970 with a BS in Physics and in 1973 graduated from the University of Connecticut Law School. Fred was an attorney for the New York State Department of Education, Office of Counsel where he was employed from 1974-2002 before retiring. He was a member of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club and a former member of the University Club in Albany. He enjoyed tai chi, cooking, reading, spending time at home with his family and working out at the Ciccotti Center in Colonie. He was a communicant at St. Ambrose Church. He was the beloved husband of Sharon Burgess, whom he married on August 11, 1973, devoted father of Kathryn (Michael) Sheridan of Latham and Carolyn Mee Ae (Christopher Utzig) Burgess of Guilderland; proud grandfather of Liam Patrick Sheridan; brother of Lawrence
Burgess of Auburn, N.Y. and Gregory Burgess of Bay Shore, N.Y.; son-in-law of Lawrence J. O'Sullivan of Hoosick Falls. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews and was looking forward to the birth of his second grandchild this summer. The funeral will be Thursday at 10:15 a.m. from the Bowen & Parker Bros. Funeral Home, 97 Old Loudon Road, Latham and at 11 a.m. at St. Ambrose Church, 347 Old Loudon Road, Latham where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the funeral home on Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Community Hospice of Albany, 445 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205 or to Parsons Child and Family Center, 60 Academy Road, Albany, NY 12208. Condolence book and directions at bowenandparkerbros.com
Published in Albany Times Union from February 11 to February 13, 2013
William Carlton Coes
William "Bill" Carlton Coes passed away at his home on October 19. Bill, the son of the late Rufus Putnam Coes and Susan (Carlton) Coes, was born on April 8, 1943 in Springfield, MA. He graduated from Longmeadow High School, Longmeadow, MA, in the class of 1961. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Hartford, CT, in 1965. Bill joined General Electric in 1965 and worked in Installation and Service Engineering out of Philadelphia until 1968. He then moved to Schenectady where he continued to work 38 more years for General Electric Gas Turbine Controls. Sailing since his boyhood summers on Lake Winnipesaukee, NH, Bill raced his Thistle, with his wife as first mate, at the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club for many years. He enjoyed traveling, including trips to the southwest US and Asia where his daughters lived. His visit to Cambodia's Angkor Wat was a special highlight. Bill's family remembers his talent for amusing cartoon drawing, creative photography and delicious cooking. They especially remember his wry wit, his calming patience and his unconditional love. Bill leaves his wife of 47 years, Lora Lee (Ekmejian) Coes; his daughters, Alissa Lee Coes of Tucson, AZ and Sara Ekmejian Coes (Xiao Jun Dong) of Honolulu HI; his grandchildren, Logan Thomasson, Raeanna, Parisa and Lucia Dong. He also leaves his sister, Julia Callanan (Eugene) of Providence, RI; and two brothers, Peter Coes (Linda) of Cummaquid, MA and Rufus Coes (Linda) of Small Point, ME. He was predeceased by a third brother, Frank Coes (Susan). The family will hold calling hours at the Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, 21 Midline Road, Ballston Lake on Thursday, October 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. A requiem service will be celebrated on Friday, October 30 at 10 a.m. at Calvary Episcopal Church, 85 Lake Hill Road, Burnt Hills. Relatives and friends are welcome.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dailygazette/obituary.aspx?n=william-carltoncoes&pid=176185448#sthash.XwXG20sE.dpuf
Robert F. Cummings 1924 - 2013
CUMMINGS, Robert F. Of Franklin, formerly of Greenfield, peacefully passed away at home surrounded by family members late Sunday morning, September 22, 2013. Bob, 89, born to James and Evelyn (Horrigan) in Bristol, CT on 1/11/24, was raised in Greenfield. He served in World War II followed by service as a Lt. Col. in the Air Force Reserve. He was an educator, graduating from Bradley University and was a history teacher, principal, and later a guidance counselor at Niskayuna High School in Schenectady, NY. Bob was an avid sailor, racing Windmills on Saratoga Lake and in waters off Long Island. Upon retiring he undertook building a 39 ft. Corbin yacht, sailing for many years with family & friends, aboard the Tara along the eastern sea-board and the Great Lakes. Bob married the love of his life, Catherine Dempsey, of NYC, and recently celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary. They have three children; Robert (wife Debbie), Patricia (husband Vint), and Stephen (fiancé Joline), five grandchildren; Erin, Sean, Matt, Caitlin, Stephanie, and one great- grandchild, Cadence. A funeral Mass will be celebrated by Bob’s cousin, the Monsignor William Stetson of Los Angeles, at St. Mary’s Church, Holliston, MA on Wednesday, September 25th at 10:30am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 480 Pleasant St., Watertown, MA 02472.
Robert E. Dobson
Sarasota, FL Robert E. Dobson passed away peacefully on June 12, 2012. He was the son of the late Winslow and Margaret (MacDonald) Dobson, born Aug. 31, 1925 in Yonkers. He was predeceased by brother, Edward. Bob married Gloria Jane Wilson on May 11, 1958 and is survived by his loving wife of 54 years. He is also survived by his children, Elizabeth (Kernan) of Glenville, Christopher (Cindy) of Burnt Hills, and Matthew (Tonya) of Burlington, NC. He and Gloria raised their children in Woodhaven in Glenville. His grandchildren include, Phoebe, William, Myla, Luke, Jackson and Maxwell, whom he dearly loved. He is also survived by his nephew, Edward Dobson and cousins, Thirza Johnson and Howard Dobson. In earlier years, Bob enjoyed skiing, hiking and camping, and he passed his love of the outdoors on to his family. He was passionate about sailing, whether on Saratoga Lake or Sarasota Bay. He was known as Captain Bob and loved being on the water with the wind to his back. Bob worked as a mechanical engineer for the General Electric Company at Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory in Niskayuna, for 36 years. He was a member of the Unitarian Church of Sarasota. A kind and gentle man, a loving husband, father and friend, he will be greatly missed. A memorial service to celebrate Bob's life will be held at a later date in Schenectady.
Published in The Daily Gazette Co. on June 17, 2012
Allan Foster
Allan Foster, a longtime resident of Niskayuna and a familiar face to audiences of the Schenectady Light Opera Company and other regional theater groups, died March 18th at Ellis Hospital. The cause was sudden complications related to lymphoma. Over six decades beginning in 1957, Foster performed in hundreds of theatrical roles, bringing his strong tenor voice to many leading roles: Lieutenant Cable in South Pacific, Bill in Carousel, Tony in West Side Story were highlights. Foster also directed many productions, most significantly the local production of Harry Chapin's Lies and Legends which won numerous regional theater awards and represented the United States in the international amateur theater competition in Spain after it opened in Schenectady in 1989. Foster was born in Brooklyn to parents, Tom and Mabel, but the family ran into financial difficulties and moved back to Bristol, England where they lived during World War II. The family's house was damaged and eventually destroyed by Nazi bombing during that period. The family returned to Darien, CT after the war and he eventually enrolled at the Engineering College at Yale, graduating in 1954. He's been active in alumni activities at Yale, most recently being disappointed by Yale's lopsided defeat by Harvard in football last fall. He moved to Schenectady with his first wife, Marion, who died in 2004, after entering a Sputnik-era GE program for new engineers which allowed participants to work in four factories before selecting their preferred location. The couple chose the Capital District, and he made his home and entire career in Niskayuna. His career spanned both engineering and management positions in high temperature alloy metallurgy for the Gas Turbine division of GE, most importantly in leading what were then called the Rainbow Tests that led to multiple patents that remain central to core engineering improvements in GE's turbine design. Besides theater, Foster was very active in the Schenectady Wintersports Club as both a skier and avid paddler. He also has been a member of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club since the 1970's, racing his Windmill in the open class regattas and winning Club championships several years with Marion as his crew. He enjoyed numerous annual canoe trips with the paddling group to U.S. and international destinations (particularly central Florida), both with his first wife and later with his second wife, Lois Foster. In recent years, Allan and Lois traveled extensively abroad and across the United States, often towing their beloved Scamp trailer along the way.
Foster is survived by his wife, Lois of Albany; two sons, David of New York City and Glenn who lives in Seattle; grandson, Adam; and adopted sister, Debbie Whalen of South Carolina. Since his remarriage to Lois in 2005, he got great joy from his adopted Vargas family (Manny, Pam, Nelson, and Philip and their families) and particularly the grandchildren, all of whom he loved and enjoyed dearly. A memorial celebration is planned at SLOC for April 21 at noon, reception to follow. Donations in Allan's memory can be made to Schenectady Light Opera Company, 427 Franklin St., Schenectady, NY 12305. For on-line condolences please visit:
www.simplechoicescremation.com
Daniel B. Goldstein
Daniel B. Goldstein, age 85, of Newtonville, died on Saturday, July 9, 2011 at the Daughters of Sarah Nursing Center. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Dan was a graduate of Adelphi University. He moved to Albany 46 years ago. He was an accountant and specialized in real estate. He had been employed by Albert and
Kirsch in Albany, the State Facility Development Corporation and later was employed by Uccullini Real Estate Company. Dan was a Navy veteran having served in World War II as well as Korea. He was a member of Congregation Beth Emeth in Albany, the Saratoga Sailing Club where he had also served as treasurer, and was past president and member of the board of directors of the B'nai B'rith Parkview Apartments in Albany. Dan loved music, and crossword puzzles and was an avid reader. He also sang with the choir at Congregation Beth Emeth. In later years Dan volunteered his time tutoring 4th grade students at School # 19 in Albany; ultimately they made him an honorary member of the PTA. Dan loved people and people loved him. He is survived by his loving wife, Joan Sussman Goldstein; a son, Stephen Goldstein of Newtonville; and a daughter, Anne Westfall of Lansingburgh,. Dan also leaves six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Services at Congregation Beth Emeth, 100 Academy Road in Albany on Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in the Beth Emeth Cemetery Loudonville, N.Y. Those wishing to remember Dan in a special way may make a memorial contribution to Congregation Beth Emeth. For directions or to sign the online guestbook, please visit, www.levinememorialchapel.com
A MEMORIAL STATEMENT FOR DANNY GOLDSTEIN
On July 9, 2011, we lost a beloved member of S.L.S.C. and we felt that it was time to acknowledge his passing. Danny Goldstein and his wife, Joan, joined the club in the early 1970’s. He brought a wonderful sense of humor and, much to our delight,
excellent accounting skills. Not one to say “no”, Danny soon became our Treasurer and continued to do that job for about 10 years. That was really a feat as he had to deal with 10 Commodores and 10 Executive Committees. But he did his job with élan, terrific personal skills, and that sense of humor, which, as most of us know, having been on the Executive Committee, sometimes takes a lot of effort!
When Danny and Joan first joined the club, they really had no sailing skills, Danny having only taken a dry sailing course in college. They were convinced by a member that a Windmill was their best choice. It only took one near capsize in this boat for Joan to jump off and tell Danny “where he could put the boat”! He eventually bought a Siren and he and Joan and their growing family had many more positive sailing experiences.
Danny was a Navy veteran, serving in both World War II and the Korean War. He loved music, crossword puzzles, and was an avid reader. He also sang with the Congregation Beth Emeth choir. He volunteered his time, tutoring 4th grade students at
School 19 in Albany.
These words don’t begin to describe what a wonderful human being Danny Goldstein was. He was just a lovely man with a lovelier wife. Together they enhanced the club with their kind, sophisticated and exceptional personalities.
The club is very lucky that we can still enjoy Joan and her family when they come to the club for our events yet we will forever miss Danny.
Barbara and Allan Miller
A Memorial Statement
-Alvin Goodman-
(1924 - 2002)
Several years ago Tim Brokaw wrote a book entitles The Greateset Generation which was based on a group of people who were of military age duing WWII - and who, now 50-60 years later, were nearing end-of-life. In essence, they - typical normal American - rose to the occasion of saving America (and the World) in non-typical ways.
At SLSC we have our own "Greatest Generation" whom I will describe as those members who carried the transition from the old (Kaydeross) club to the new (Melander) facility. Only those who lived through those times can fully appreciate the trials and trauma involved.
An elder statesman and stron froce behind the scenes was Alvin Goodman who applied intelligent application of common sense to the interplay of discussions during the negotiations and decision to make the move. Although he preferred to work in the background, these talents caused him to be elected Rear Commodore in 1970: a post he served with distinction!
Of course Al had his own support group: wife Muriel, son Freddy, daughters Gail and Carol. They were an SLSC family in the best sense of the word!
Al contributed an additional chapter to the clbu when he and other dedicated sailors banded together and brought the first Kestrel boats to the US. They had a bulk shipment of boats from England by freighter. Happily, the Kestrel fleet is very active today.
A quiet man, Al finding one of our members forced to make a job change due to a child's illness, arranged a quasi-partnership so the member could start his own business.
Lastly, one of Al's most valuable contributions was the design and fabrication of the blue and gold SLSC sign that graces our driveway entrance. Al, you will not be forgotten!
Randall Rice Historian
Gwynfor Gummer
Gwynfor Gummer passed away in Albany, NY on Monday, April 29, 2013. He was born in the United Kingdom and served in the British Army during World War II. Mr. Gummer worked for Key Bank for many years before retiring.
Gwyn and Joyce were stalwart long-time members of the Jet 14 fleet and raced regularly. He and Joyce had a pair of Sunfish for noodling about. Gwyn was proud of his Welch heritage. He bore his serious physical impairments encountered in later life with remarkably good humor. He continued his membership in the club after his sailing days were over and attended the major social events.
Gwynfor is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Gummer. Funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family.
From the Albany Times Union, with additional comments by Allan Tedrow.
Frank Loper Helme
Alplaus, NY. Frank Loper Helme died peacefully on Saturday evening, September 22, after a long siege with Alzheimer's. He was 80 years old. A resident of Alplaus near Schenectady, NY, he was born in Port Jefferson, Long Island on September 10, 1932 to Mildred Loper Helme and Frank Stubert Helme. After graduating from high school in Port Jefferson, Frank went to Princeton University. There he joined the Cloister Inn Dining Club and was on Princeton Crew and the Rifle Team. He received his bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering in June 1954, graduating with honors. After graduation, he was on active duty in the Army until 1957. He was responsible for a radar installation and worked with a team to train radar technicians. A highlight of those years was a three week jaunt around Europe with free airplane flights for being in uniform. After two years he was transferred to the Army Reserve for the remainder of his eight-year commitment. He was
honorably discharged in 1963.
After active duty, Frank gained employment at KAPL, Knolls Atomic Power Lab. He attended RPI while at KAPL and was awarded a master of science degree in mechanical engineering in January 1960. In 1975 Frank undertook and completed training in the KAPL Nuclear Power Engineering School. He became a nuclear plant shutdown director responsible for developing procedures and overseeing the shutdown of nuclear submarine power plants. After a number of other positions at KAPL, he retired in 1994 after 37 years.
After retirement Frank took a new direction, installing up a complete pottery studio in the basement and concentrating on making pots. Having taken courses for years, he soon became fascinated with developing glazes. A number of fine pieces he made are treasured by family and friends.
Travel also became a focus during the active retirement years. Hiking in Peru and New Zealand, kayaking in the Bahamas and the Pacific Northwest, safari in Kenya and Tanzania, were some of the high points.
Boats were a big part of Frank's life. As a youngster he sailed on Long Island Sound, and built and raced a small motor boat. As an adult he had a motor yacht on Lake George for many years and enjoyed fishing and camping on the islands. In the 1980s, returning to sailing, Frank joined the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club. He raced a Kestrel with wife, Ruth, as crew and was active in the Kestrel fleet. He also enjoyed canoeing and kayaking. With Ruth and friends, he undertook numerous paddling and camping trips. He also had a number of BMW motorcycles and old Porsche sports cars over the years and regularly rode his motorcycle to KAPL.
Frank was a spiritual questioner and seeker. He found a spiritual path, Eckankar, which answered his questions. He was very active in the regional group, acting as treasurer and then area director for a number of years.
Frank is survived by his wife, Ruth Bonn, whom he married in 1988. She resides in Alplaus. He was previously married to Marcia Phillips Helme. Their son, Steven Phillips Helme, born in 1963, now resides in Seattle. His two children, Alexandra, 16, and Nathan, 11, also live in Seattle, with their mother, Jane Higgins. Two stepsons survive Frank as well: JP (John Paul) Bonn, now living in Edinburgh, Scotland, and Gregory Bonn, who lives in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
A memorial service will be held at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road, Glenville, NY on Tuesday, September 25 at six o'clock. Donations to the Alzheimer's Association,
Northeastern NY Chapter, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011 may be made in lieu of flowers.
Published in The Daily Gazette Co. on September 24, 2012
A Memorial Statement
Victoria T. Henkes
(1934 - 1995)
In 1963, while visiting Stone Harbor, N.J., I was"
introduced to a neat little boat with a striped sail. It
was-called a Sunfish!
Upon our return, we described this boat to our
neighbors and best friends, Jack and Vicky Henkes. They were also enthused so, in partnership, we purchased a wood Sunfish kit from AlCort Co. ($297.00) and built it in eight straight days
Where to sail our creation? We had heard of a
rag-tailed group called Saratoga Lake sailing club. Dues were only $10.00 per year, so both families joined.
Jack and Vicky became avid Jet-14 sailors and racers
and in true club tradition trained their children, 'Tori,Lori, Johnny, and Andrew, in Jets also. They continued very active in all Jet activities.
Jack served as Commodore in 1969 and when we moved to the Melander (present) location in 1973, Vicky was appointed social chairman. This was an excellent choice because in that first year we needed all the help we could get to hurdle the transition.
Vicky, with her cheerful smile and friendly personality was exactly the person for the job. Among the other activities Vicky scheduled spring cocktail parties for prospective members. These cocktail parties not only impressed the
prospects but reaffirmed loyalty from many present members.
As important, she made lasting friendships with "the old gang" - (as us graybeards liked to call ourselves)!
Several years ago Jack and Vicky bought a condominium at Canon Point, Lake George and with it a Catalina-23 cruising sloop. They thus left active participation in SLSC.
Friendship is the quality of life and good friends
are not forgotten. She enriched our lives and we will miss her !
Randall H. Rice
SLSC Historian
February 1995
Dr. Leo J. Hoge, MD
(November 23, 1915 - May 4, 2012)
Saratoga Lake, NY – Dr. Leo J. Hoge, MD, of Shore Leave, passed away Friday, May 4, 2012 at the Wesley Health Care Center, Lawrence Street. He was 96.
Born on Nov. 23, 1915 in Saratoga Springs, he was a son of the late Dr. Leo J. and Anne (Jordan) Hoge. The senior class president and a 1933 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School, he attended Hobart College on a basketball scholarship, was captain of the freshman team and the college’s varsity team in his senior team. A graduate of the University of Louisville Medical School, he served as a research assistant in the department of Pathology. His work, entitled “Gelatin as a Substitute for Blood after Experimental Hemorrhage”, was published in the American Journal of Medical Sciences, July, 1942 (No.1, Vol. 204, pp4-11). In 1938, he worked
for a year in Manati, Puerto Rico, as instructor-companion for Juan Enrique D’avila, who had a congenital cerebral hemorrhage. A 17 year old weighing only 70 pounds, Juan Enrique’s father had the largest sugar cane plantation on the island and was often visited by Munoz Marin, who later became the first governor of Puerto Rico.
Dr. Hoge joined the US Navy in 1942 and served aboard LST 531, later sunk in the English Channel by a German Schnell boat. He later served aboard LST 371 which landed at Normandy Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Following several trans-channel crossings, Lt. Hoge and his corpsmen were ordered to the Asiatic-Pacific Theater for the Iwo Jima invasion with the US Marines. While on leave in the US, he was ordered to the USS Atlanta cruiser, with Admiral Halsey’s Fast Carrier Task Force 38.1 and later Admiral Spruance’s 58.1 force. At Okinawa, the group was repeatedly attacked by Japanese kamikazes, resulting in 32 ships sunk and 9,700 US Navy casualties. Later awarded several citations and medals, including the European Theater ribbon with one bronze star, the Asiatic-Pacific theater ribbon with two bronze stars and the NYS Medal Award for Conspicuous Service, he was also a recipient of the French Liberte’ Medal for service during the D-Day invasion.
His late wife, the former Sheila Scott of Glasgow, Scotland, served in the Women’s Royal Naval Service during World War Two when they first met in 1944 and later married in Saratoga Springs in 1946. Following the war, they resided at 129 Circular Street where he conducted his medical practice. This historic home was built in 1835 and once owned by Eliza Jumel, one of the largest land owners in Saratoga Springs at that time. In 1832, Aaron Burr married the widow Jumel. Dr. Hoge joined the Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory in 1965 as lab physician and was responsible for the radiological emergency response to KAPL’s three reactor sites. Dr. Hoge developed procedures for medical personnel that remain incorporated in emergency response plans today and was responsible to area hospitals, including Saratoga, Ellis and St. Francis in Hartford, CT for training and management of all radioactive contaminated patients and certified as such specialist.
Long active in community activities and organizations, he was a member of the US Naval Institute, American Nuclear Society, a founder of the US TransUranium Registry, an early member of the Dr. Harold Plumley KAPL group along with the Retired KAPL organization and an active member of the Council of Retired Military Personnel at the Watervliet Arsenal.
His hobbies included sailing, photography and an absolute love of thoroughbred horse racing. He crewed on John Hertz’s 72 foot ketch Ticonderoga in the Transatlantic Sailboat Race from Havana to Spain (4,200 miles, 25 days, 14 hours, 58 minutes and 20 seconds). Along with numerous other races, he participated in sailing the Bermuda races and owned the first International 14 on Saratoga Lake. He maintained a large collection of 16mm film and multiple albums of still photography relating to thoroughbred horses and racing at Saratoga. A member of the Saratoga Springs History Museum, he later served as a docent at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame where he volunteered for many years. An avid backgammon player, he was a founder of the Saratoga Backgammon Club. He and his late wife (“Marty” who died Oct.13, 1989) always traveled with their backgammon board, whether it be to England, Cape Horn to Cape Hope, South Africa, French Guiana to Dakar, Yacht Highlander, Costa Rica or throughout
the US.
Survivors include his son, Lee Scott Hoge; three grandchildren, Larissa Scott Albashian, Ian Scott Hoge , Jack Hoge and one great-granddaughter, Ilee Sheila Hoge.
A memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 149 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs at 11am Wednesday, May 9, 2012.
Memorial donations may be made in Leo’s name to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church or Wesley Health Care Center, 131 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
The family would like to thank the staff on the 3rd floor of the Hathorn Building at Wesley for their care and compassion. A special thank you to Debra Eggleston and William Pettigrew for
their friendship and love.
Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Carol Hudson
Carol Jean (Greenhill) Hudson, of Niskayuna, passed away at Ellis Hospital on Sunday, September 13, 2015 after a sixty year battle with rheumatoid arthritis. Carol was born in Troy, New York on August 18, 1935 to Jack K. Greenhill and Jean Dorothea (Winne) Greenhill, both deceased. She is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, John B. Hudson. Carol spent her early years in Pittsfield, MA before moving to Corinth, NY. She graduated from New York State Teachers' College in Albany, NY in 1957. She taught English in the Duanesburg School District for one year, then retired to raise a family. Despite being crippled by increasingly severe rheumatoid arthritis, she rejoined the work force in 1978, accepting a position at the Schenectady Museum where she was Director of Public Information and Publications. She remained at the museum until her retirement in 1997. In her retirement years she developed a passion for genealogy research, and published books on the origins and history of both sides of the Greenhill and Hudson families, going back to the first European settlers of this country. She was also able to indulge her passion for opera and theater, and to accompany John and David to sailing regattas each Summer. She spent her final winters in Florida, where she found many new friends.
Carol is also survived by her three children Robert Hudson of Fulton, NY; David (Trudy) Hudson of Niskayuna and Jean (Chip) Copper of Hummelstown, PA. She leaves three grandchildren, Amy Hudson, Peter Hudson and Katherine Copper. She is also survived by sisters Barbara (Don) Eckenfelder of Queensbury, NY, and Joanna (David) Bock of Newfield, NY, and brother Jon (Karen) Greenhill of Oakland, MD and numerous nieces and nephews. Her sister, Nancy (Fran) Casey of Lake George, NY predeceased her.
She was an outgoing person for whom acquaintances soon became friends. She will be remembered for her ability to connect with people of divergent backgrounds. Her courage in going on in the face of incessant pain from her arthritis, even when confined to a wheelchair in her final years, is an inspiration for us all.
Viewing hours will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Friday, September 18 at the Jones Funeral Home, 1503 Union St, Schenectady. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 19 at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Schenectady, 1221 Wendell Ave in Schenectady. Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to the Glimmerglass Festival, PO Box 191, Cooperstown, NY, 13326 or to Shakespeare & Company, 70 Kemble St., Lenox, MA, 01240.
The Saratoga Lake Sailing Club has been incredibly blessed with a phenomenon that simply stated says, “Whenever there has been a crisis of any proportion, some member, somehow, someway, would rise to the occasion.” But, we never had anyone who rose to every occasion. That is, until Mary Elizabeth Hull arrived.
It was 1976 when Mary Elizabeth and John joined the club. They had an old Snipe which was not considered a dominant fleet at the time. However, they did not stay on the fringe of society long, because the general friendliness and sociability of the members showed them they had found a home—no matter what boat they sailed. Before long, Mary Elizabeth had been asked to crew in some of the more popular classes, and a major facet of her life had been formed.
Being the person she was, she quickly became a member of the “in” group. At SLSC, the “in” group is defined as someone who volunteers to do a job without being asked.
Such talent and enthusiasm had to be used, and Mary Elizabeth became Social Chair, followed by Membership Chair and Flag Lt. House which placed her on the Executive Committee. Very quickly, she was elected to Rear Commodore, Vice Commodore and Commodore in the years 1980, 1981, and 1982, respectively. After flag office, true to form, she stayed on as Membership Chair.
Mary Elizabeth was the friendly face that greeted new members with warm hospitality. She was also an excellent executive who knew how to get things done. To this end, she was even pushy at times, but with such charm, the recipients rarely knew they were being pushed.
There are a host of words that describe Mary Elizabeth: friendly, enthusiastic, beautiful, hard working, effective, super crew, loving and vital. However, to me, the definitive word describing Mary Elizabeth is “vibrant.” Everything she did or said was infused with an inner energy that radiated her personal warmth.
A good friend has now left us, and we will miss her.
Randall H. Rice, Historian 1991
Richard G. “Dick” Lohnes
Richard G. "Dick" Lohnes, of Schaghticoke, passed away on March 1, 2015, at the age of 85 in Burlington, N.C. He was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Eleanor W. Lohnes, also of Schaghticoke. He is survived by his brother, Robert F. Lohnes; son David P. Lohnes and daughter-in-law Fran Fuchs Lohnes of Greenfield Center; son John H. Lohnes of Durham, N.C.; two grandchildren, Adam A. Lohnes and Jason D. Lohnes; two great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. Dick was born on August 31, 1929, in Valley Falls to Carl W. Lohnes and Mabel B. Gifford. He graduated from Hoosic Valley Central High School in 1946 and earned a bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College in 1950. He served as an officer in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1955 on the USS Eaton. With his brother he owned and managed Lohnes Associates Insurance Agency in Schaghticoke until his retirement in 2000. Dick was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church in Valley Falls, where he served as a trustee and sang in the choir. He was extremely active in the civic affairs of his community where he was the Schaghticoke Village historian until 2014. He previously served on the Schaghticoke town planning board, the board of Diver Library and as president and treasurer of Elmwood Cemetery. He was a member of the Victor Masonic Lodge 680, the VFW, the American Legion Post of Schaghticoke, the Mechanicville Rotary Club and the Rensselaer Historical Society. Dick and his wife traveled extensively in the United States and overseas following retirement. Dick will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was a dedicated servant to and leader of his community and a respected friend to all who knew him. Dick has donated his remains to the Duke University Medical School in Durham, N.C. Visitation with the family will be held at the Valley Falls United Methodist Church from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 27. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, also at the Valley Falls United Methodist Church, 16 State St., Valley Falls. Condolences may be sent to the family at P.O. Box 210, Schaghticoke, NY 12154. Contributions may be made to the Rotary Foundation at 14280 Collection Center Drive, Chicago, IL 60693 (rotary.org) or a charity of your choice. The family would like to thank his caregivers at home, at St. Mary's Hospital in Troy and at Duke University Medical Center for their dedication and expert care. See more at:
https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/richard-lohnes-obituary?pid=174475908
Randall H. Rice
Rice, Randall H. LATHAM Randall (Randy) Hinds Rice, 89, entered into eternal life Thursday, December 19, 2013. Born in Danville, Ill., and raised in State College, Pa., he was the son of the late Philip X. and Helene Hinds Rice, and stepson of Maretta Jordan Rice. Randall graduated from State College High School in 1942, and Penn State College in 1948, with a bachelor's in electrical engineering. He served as an Ensign (A1) in the US Naval Reserve from 1942 to 1946, and was proud to be a naval aviator during World War II, spending time in Japan and the Far East after World War II ended. Randall joined Westinghouse in 1948, spending five years as a young bachelor engineer in Cleveland, Ohio. He moved to Albany, N.Y. in 1954, as a lighting sales engineer with the Westinghouse Lighting Division, a position he held for 34 years, specializing in airport and street lamp lighting. In 1980, Westinghouse sent him to Santiago, Chile for 17 months, to work as a lighting consultant for H. Briones Y CIA S.A.C. I., which turned out to be a wonderful and enlightening experience. After retiring from Westinghouse, he served as an independent contractor for the Crouse Hinds Co., and Randall Rice Streetlighting System Sales. Randall was active in his professional community. For many years he was a member of the Illuminating Engineering Society, Mohawk Hudson Division, serving as chairman in 1962, and president in 1978. He wrote various articles on lighting, won several awards, and had one patent. Randall took up sailing as a hobby in the early 1960's. His first sailboat was a wooden Sunfish he and a friend built. He moved up to a Windmill and Mariner 19 that he sailed on Saratoga Lake, and a Greenwich 24 that he sailed on Lake George. Randall was very active for most of his adult life in the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club, serving as Commodore in 1966, and more recently as Club Historian. He was also a long-time member of the Windmill Class Association, serving as president in 1974-76. Randall was a longtime and devout member of the Schenectady Church of Christ. His faith and devotion supported him throughout his life. He instilled a similar belief in God and church in his children. Randall's other devotion was to family, home, and their dogs. He was the proud owner of "The Rice Paddy", an old farmhouse with a barn and land, in what was originally a rural part of Latham, N.Y., that he and his wife lovingly restored and expanded. It was the scene of many picnics and parties, including wonderful neighborhood Halloween parties and rides through the woods in the Paddy Wagon. Randall was the beloved husband of 59 years to Eleanor Corneilson Rice; loving father of Lisa Helene Rice Hayes and her husband, Richard B. Hayes, of Md. and Linda Susan Rice Thorup and her husband, Donald W. Thorup, III of N.C.; cherished grandfather of Alexander Randall Thorup, Anna Elizabeth Thorup, and Ethan Dettmar Hayes; loving brother of David Reagan Rice and his wife, Marge Rice; beloved cousin of Betty Rice Trott and her husband, Dale Trott. Randall is also survived by eight nieces and nephews. Randall was a man of many friends and stories. He was a wonderful son, husband, father, grandfather, friend, and colleague; a man who was both liked and admired, and will be greatly missed. A funeral service will be held 11 a.m., Saturday, December 28, 2013 at the First Presbyterian Church, 362 State St., Albany. Interment will be in Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands. Donations in Randall's memory may be made to the Schenectady Church of Christ, 2042 Balltown Rd., Schenectdy, NY 12309. To leave the family an online condolence please visit sbfuneralhome.com.
Randy H. Rice
I am Randy and Elly Rice's daughter. I believe that SLSC has been informed that my father passed away on Thursday, December 19th, at age 89. He had a bad fall two weeks ago and broke his leg near the hip. He spent a week in the hospital, then moved to Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital. The surgery from his leg was healing nicely and he was making improvement in his walking, when he unexpectedly died in his sleep. Fortunately, my mother had a nice afternoon with him the day before he died, and my sister, Linda, and I both spoke with him that last day. Though obviously not thrilled with having to do rehab, Dad remained incredibly positive and cheerful, charming all the nurses and doctors, and continuing to be a loving husband and father. We will all miss him terribly, but feel so fortunate to have had him with us for so many years.
As I am sure you are well aware, Saratoga Lake Sailing Club was a big and important part of his life. SLSC was a second home to our whole family. He loved spending time there. Linda and I were so pleased that you all accommodated Mom and Dad's growing frailty and allowed them to still be an active part of the club.
Because of the holidays, Dad's obituary has not yet been published in the newspaper, (look for it on Thursday or Friday) but we wanted to get the word out to the club about his funeral. I would appreciate it if you would share this information with the rest of the club members. We realize that this is a busy time and people have many prior commitments.
A funeral service will be held 11:00 AM, Saturday, December 28, 2013 at the First Presbyterian Church, 362 State St., Albany. Interment will be in Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands. Friends are invited back to The Rice Paddy at 192 Old Niskayuna Road, Latham, after the services. Donations in Randall’s memory may be made to the Schenectady Church of Christ, 2042 Balltown Rd, Schenectady, NY 12309. To leave the family an online condolence please visit
www.sbfuneralhome.com.
Regards,
Lisa Rice Hayes
Randy H. Rice
I have known Randy since I joined the Club in 1966. Randy was at the heart of Club activities for many years, until failing health forced him to cut back on his activities. Up to the end he was still registering people for club affairs such as the chicken barbecue and the lobster boil.
Most of his sailing at the club was in a windmill, which was a very active fleet in the 60’s and 70’s. He was responsible for me purchasing a windmill in 1977 or 8, and was an active racer for many years. He was was instrumental in forming a group of Windmill sailors known as “Capital Windmill Associates” to increase fleet size by selling new boats to prospective club members. He also served as Windmill Class President.
He was at the heart of efforts to find a permanent home for the club, realizing that rental of space at the Kaydeross amusement park was not a viable long term option. He headed a properties committee that searched for possible sites all around the lake, and eventually settled on our current property. He devoted considerable time and energy to promote the purchase of the property. The final breakthrough came at a meeting at his house in the Fall of 1972, at which several of us agreed to purchase bonds to generate cash for a down payment.
In his later years, he serves as club historian, and was always a hit at the Commodore’s Ball with his humorous renditions of club history.
He was an outstanding asset to the Club and will be sorely missed.
John Hudson
Randy Rice:
Randy was already a club icon when our family joined. That was when the club was at Kaydeross Park. Randy and the entire Rice family welcomed us warmly and were among the first of all the friends we have made there over the years. Randy as club historian was the perfect person for that position. His good nature and ability to tell a story were among his strengths. It was a tradition as part of every Commodore’s Ball that Randy would bring us up to date on the club history past and present. It is something those of us fortunate enough to have been there for these will not forget. Randy was part of the properties committee and is a large part of the reason we have the beautiful property in Manning Cove. Randy’s and the Rice family’s contributions to SLSC are part of the foundation that makes our club as strong as it is today.
Allan Miller
When I joined the club in 1964, Bob and Jo Robinson were already members - sailing a Lightning as I remember.
They were very active in all aspects of club operations - but Bob did not wish to become a club officer; instead, he just pitched in and got going whatever needed to be going. Jo, his wife, was very socially minded and enjoyed good fun. She also enjoyed wearing the spinnaker portion of her evening gowns at half-mast - thus endearing her popularity with all the male members of the club - and the envy of many of the female members.
Bob was a major in the Air Force and stationed, as I remember, at the Schenectady County Airport. He enjoyed sailing but loved flying.
About a year later Bob received the orders he had been requesting ever since Viet Nam became a factor in world strategy. So, with a great send-off party, we bid them farewell and they left for Eglin AFB in Florida for operational training before going overseas.
On his third night tactics training flight at Eglin, Bob was killed in a mid-air collision. He never saw action!
Jo moved with the children to Oklahoma and maintained a corresponding membership with the club for many years.
The ROBINSON TROPHY is the first SLSC Race Series so authorized to honor one of our outstanding members.
Randall H. Rice
Historian- 1986
John B. Sweeney III, 72, of Guilderland, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 16, 2012 at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.
John was born in Buffalo on December 19, 1939 and was the son of the late John and Ruth Sweeney Jr. John Sweeney began his education with a solid Jesuit foundation at Canisius High School followed by Canisius College where he focused on his true love of math and science by receiving a bachelor's of science in Physics. While working full-time, he continued to satisfy his desire for learning by earning three Master's of Science degrees (mechanical engineering, computer science and electrical engineering) from Union College. Later in his career, through experience and certification, he earned the designation of professional engineer.
John's career began with several laboratory positions at Allied Chemical in Buffalo, followed by a move to Albany for a research engineer position with Huyck Felt. In 1974 he began his career at General Electric in Schenectady where he held many positions as an engineer in the Power Generation Division until his retirement after 32 years of service. He continued to be engaged at General Electric for several years after his retirement as a consulting engineer.
As an active member of the Christ the King parish community for more than 45 years, he shared his technical and mechanical skills in many ways from participating on building committees to managing the scheduling of weekly mass volunteers and website. John was also very active with the Knights of Columbus as a Third Degree Knight and had previously held the distinction of Grand Knight for three years. Throughout his life, he was an active volunteer providing service to others. With his wife at his side, John was active at the Food Pantry in Albany by driving to local restaurants to collect donations as well as participating in the distribution of items at the pantry. Participating with fellow GE employees, he was very active with the Elfin Society. John shared his building skills through the time spent working on Habitat for Humanity homes in GA.
John loved sailing regardless of the location or size of vessel this activity he not only enjoyed himself but he contagiously shared it with family and friends. Being the engineer, he not only sailed purchased boats but during his life constructed and sailed several boats on Lakes Erie and Saratoga. In retirement, John enjoyed the opportunity to spend more time with his wife, family, and friends with activities like golfing, traveling to warm places, and working on his many computers.
John Sweeney is survived by Janis, his loving wife of 51 years; son, John and his wife, Marybeth; daughter, Maureen and her husband, Richard Ullman; his brothers, Michael and Richard Sweeney of Buffalo; and his grandchildren, Meghan, Elizabeth, Jack, Karen, Kendall, and Thomas. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Karen, who died of cancer in 1992. Funeral services will be Wednesday morning at 9:15 at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie then to Christ the King Church at 10 where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Calling hours will be Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. The parish family of Christ the King Church will gather at 4:30 for a service of prayer and remembrance. All are welcome. Interment will be in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna. At the request of the family, memorial contributions are suggested to Christ the King Church Building Fund, 20 Sumpter Ave., Albany, NY 12203 in memory of John B. Sweeney III.