Troy High School Alumni
All Years
Obituaries 2014
THS OBITUARIES 2014
William H. McLaughlin, 68, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, April, 3, 2014 in Community Hospice at Samaritan Hospital surrounded by his family. Born in Troy, he was the son of the late Henry McLaughlin and Ruth Phillips McLaughlin. Raised and educated in Troy, he was a graduate of Troy High School, class of 1963. Bill was a United States Navy veteran, serving during the Vietnam War. He was a fireman with the Troy Fire Department for 26 years, retiring as Captain in 1995. Bill loved fishing and bird watching with his grandchildren and going on long rides with the love of his life the late Sandy Seney. An outstanding baseball player and coach, he loved playing ball with his son. Survivors include his son Brett McLaughlin (Mandi) of East Greenbush, three brothers Patrick McLaughlin (Donna) of Troy, Joseph McLaughlin of Troy, Gary McLaughlin (Betty) of Troy, two grandsons Tyler and Anthony McLaughlin, godson Patrick McLaughlin, and several nieces and cousins. Funeral service will be private. Burial will be at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, with full military honors. In lieu of flowers donations in Bill’s memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association, Pine West Plaza Building 2, Suite 204, Washington Ave., Extension, Albany, NY 12205. To light a candle and offer words of condolence visit mcloughlinmason.com.
Handelman, Nancy M.
LAFAYETTE, Calif. Nancy M. Handelman of Lafayette died on March 18, 2014 at the John Muir Hospital in Walnut Creek, Calif. The daughter of George H. and Marcia M. Handelman, she was born in Pittsburgh on February 8, 1951. She grew up in Troy and graduated from Troy High School and Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, Mass., where she received a degree in aesthetics, art history and studio art. Her junior year was spent at Dartmouth College in Hanover, N.H. She also studied at the Arts League in New York City and at a special summer program at Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University) in painting and sculpture. She worked for a number of years on the East Coast and on her own in marketing research. She then moved her own company, Nancy Handelman Qualitative Research, to California and successfully advised many major corporations on new products and new projects. She also made many pro bono efforts for historical venues and civic operations. In addition, she opened her own studio in Berkeley, Calif., where she pursued her painting for many years. She exhibited in many shows, particularly on the West Coast and had some paintings at United States embassies abroad as part of a state department program to promote young American artists. Nancy is survived by her mother, Marcia M. Handelman of Troy; her sister, Louise S. of Princeton, N.J.; her brother-in-law, Alexander J. Smits of Princeton; a nephew, Peter D. Smits of Chicago; a nephew, James Robert Smits of New York; an aunt, Beverly M. Steinberg of Pittsburgh and two cousins, Mark W. Steinberg of Northampton, Mass., and Alan J. Steinberg of Pittsburgh. She was predeceased by her father, George H. Handelman. Nancy has willed her body for medical research to the University of California, San Francisco. Services locally will be private. To sign the online guestbook, please visit,levinememorialchapel.com.
Sally Jean (Gillick) LeMaire - THS 1968
Sally Jean (Gillick) LeMaire, 62, passed away on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at Glens Falls Hospital surrounded by her loving family. Born in Troy on June 11, 1951, she was the daughter of the late John and Doris (Dyer) Gillick. She was raised in Wynantskill and graduated from Troy High School. Sally enjoyed vacationing at her family's summer camp on Cossayuna Lake, which is where she met her future husband. On Jan. 25, 1969 she married Robert John LeMaire. They spent 25 wonderful years together before Roberts passing. Sally and her husband owned and ran Art's Place on Cossayuna Lake and later The Video Place in Salem for many years. She also worked for many area medical device companies. She enjoyed being a Girl Scout troop leader for her daughter's troop, crocheting, enjoyed local history, and had an avid love for reading.
Left to cherish her memories are her children, Robert John LeMaire Jr. and wife Kathleen, John Arthur LeMaire and wife Christy, and Veronica Hamilton and husband Shawn; grandchildren, Sara, Robert III, Nathaniel, Kiara, Matthew, and Gabriella; sister, Susan Martini and husband Salvatore; brother, Michael Gillick and wife Carol; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Family and friends may call from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2014 at M.B. Kilmer Funeral Home, 82 Broadway, Fort Edward, NY 12828. To view Sally's Book of Memories and post online condolences, go to www.kilmerfuneralhome.com. A graveside service will be conducted late in the spring at Evergreen Cemetery, Salem. Donations in Sally's memory may be made to Crandall Library, 251 Glens St., Glens Falls, NY 12801.
Sally Jean (Gillick) LeMaire
Sally Jean (Gillick) LeMaire, 62, passed away on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at Glens Falls Hospital surrounded by her loving family. Born in Troy on June 11, 1951, she was the daughter of the late John and Doris (Dyer) Gillick. She was raised in Wynantskill and graduated from Troy High School. Sally enjoyed vacationing at her family's summer camp on Cossayuna Lake, which is where she met her future husband. On Jan. 25, 1969 she married Robert John LeMaire. They spent 25 wonderful years together before Roberts passing. Sally and her husband owned and ran Art's Place on Cossayuna Lake and later The Video Place in Salem for many years. She also worked for many area medical device companies. She enjoyed being a Girl Scout troop leader for her daughter's troop, crocheting, enjoyed local history, and had an avid love for reading. Left to cherish her memories are her children, Robert John LeMaire Jr. and wife Kathleen, John Arthur LeMaire and wife Christy, and Veronica Hamilton and husband Shawn; grandchildren, Sara, Robert III, Nathaniel, Kiara, Matthew, and Gabriella; sister, Susan Martini and husband Salvatore; brother, Michael Gillick and wife Carol; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Family and friends may call from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2014 at M.B. Kilmer Funeral Home, 82 Broadway, Fort Edward, NY 12828. To view Sally's Book of Memories and post online condolences, go to www.kilmerfuneralhome.com. A graveside service will be conducted late in the spring at Evergreen Cemetery, Salem. Donations in Sally's memory may be made to Crandall Library, 251 Glens St., Glens Falls, NY 12801.
Meharg, (Clara) Jane Lane - THS Faculty
TROY (Clara) Jane Lane Meharg of Pawling Avenue died on Wednesday, March 19, 2014, at her residence surrounded by the family she loved and who in turn loved her tremendously for her sensitivity, compassion and guidance. Born in Troy, she was beloved daughter of the late Patrick J. Lane and Josephine McCarthy Lane and wife for 65 years of James W. Meharg. She had resided in Troy all her life and was a graduate of Holy Names Academy, earned her bachelor's degree from Russell Sage College, master's from the State University of New York at Albany and did post graduate work at Fordham University. Mrs. Meharg was a guidance counselor at Troy High School for 40 years, who retired in 1993 and also worked as a substitute teacher. She was a member of New York State Retired Teachers Association, several bridge clubs and was a communicant of Sacred Heart Church and the Altar Rosary Society. Survivors, in addition to her husband, include two sons, Dr. Michael Patrick (Corinne) Meharg of Cazenovia, and Dr. John J. (Chris) Meharg of San Francisco; two daughters, Patricia A. (Peter) Edelman of Averill Park and Kitty (William Hammond) Weldon of San Anselmo, Calif.; her grandchildren, Jesse, Erin Lane and Emily Lane Meharg, Phoebe, Zoe and Livia Meharg and Finn Patrick and Beck Thomas Weldon; a great-granddaughter, Riley Quinn Meharg; and her best friend for more than 80 years, Beverly Quinn (Mrs. Joseph Cannon). A special thank you to her caregiver and friend, Ken Boyer, and Dr. David Shaffer and nurses at NYOH. Relatives and friends may call at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc., 276 Pawling Ave., Troy on Friday, March 21 from 4 to 7 p.m. Funeral service will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at the funeral home and at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church in Troy where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will be in St. Patrick's Cemetery, Watervliet. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Clara Jane Meharg to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital , 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or Sacred Heart Church, Spring Avenue, Troy, NY 12180. For a private family guest book and service directions, visit brycefh.com.
Hogan, Richard B. - THS 1957
CLIFTON PARK Richard B. Hogan, 75, passed away on Saturday, March 15, 2014 at home, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 6, 1938 in Plattsburgh, he was the son of the late Florence Borst Hogan and Joseph M. Hogan. He moved to Troy as a teenager and graduated from Troy High School. He later served in the U.S. Army, upon discharge he returned to Troy, where he later married his wife of 45 years, Christine Swanson Hogan. Together they raised two wonderful and loving daughters. Many happy times were spent together, camping and boating on the Schroon River and Lake. His greatest joy in life was his family, and he took great pride in all of their accomplishments. His five grandchildren were the light of his life and he enjoyed his time with them to the fullest. Dick retired from United Parcel Service, Albany, in 1995 with 29 years of service. After retirement he enjoyed spending winters on Hutchinson Island, Fla. His greatest pleasures were the visits from family, especially his two daughters and their families. He was always anxious to have his grandchildren visit so that Papa could taxi them around in his golf cart and take them to the ocean. He was a devoted baseball fan "Go Mets." Most recently he took great pleasure in watching his grandson Alex and his team, being coached by his dad, play baseball. He spent many happy hours at the fields weekly. Cheering for his Capital Renegades made him a very happy Papa and their biggest fan. Watching granddaughter Courtney on the softball field made Papa so happy, as he was also a big softball fan, and hearing how she and her brother played basketball, well that was a joy for Papa. His North Carolina girls, Chelsea, Rachael and Elizabeth took to the soccer fields with Mom as their coach. He never saw them play in person but was able to enjoy lots of video coverage. For Papa, having always loved sports, it gave him great pleasure to see them all on their teams having great fun, and to see their parents involved with them just made him filled with pride. Through all of his illness he never lost his quick wit or wonderful sense of humor, and he passed that same wit onto his grandchildren, leaving us with many happy memories to treasure. Richard was predeceased by his parents and his beloved grandmother, Clara "De De" Borst. He was also predeceased by his niece, Catherine Helen Collins, who truly shared in his sense of humor. He is survived by his loving wife, Christine Swanson Hogan; daughter, Erin Hogan Wurster (Mark) of North Carolina; daughter, Tricia Hogan Zielinski (Randy) of Clifton Park; brothers, Ronald J. Hogan (Arlene) of Clifton Park, and Joseph M. Hogan (Diane) of Clifton Park; sister, Elaine Hogan Schlegel (Lawrence) of New Jersey; brother-in-law, Terry L. Collins and sister-in-law, Joan Swanson Collins of Ballston Spa. His beloved grandchildren, Alexander Richard and Courtney Christine Zielinski, both of Clifton Park, Chelsea Helen, Rachael Christine and Elizabeth Erin Wurster, all of North Carolina. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2014 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home, 1550 Route 9, Clifton Park. Funeral services will be private. Burial with military honors will be held in the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville. Memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Funeral arrangements have been by the family to the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home, Clifton Park.
Hale, William C.
WYNANTSKILL William C. Hale, 75, of Wynantskill, passed into eternal rest on Friday evening, March 14, 2014 at Samaritan Hospital in Troy, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born in Troy and was the son of the late Nelson and Agnes Lewis Hale and loving husband of Gloria Duffney Hale of Wynantskill. Bill served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1956 to 1962. He had been employed for 35 years at Sysco Foods. Bill had been on the diving team at Troy High School and again when he was in the U.S. Air Force. He enjoyed watching golf on television and was an avid New York Jet's fan. But the passion in Bill's life was always his family. In addition to his wife Gloria, Bill is also survived by his sons, William (Megan) Hale of Ballston Lake, David (Amy) Hale of Wynantskill, Kevin (Amy) Hale of Colorado and Dennis (Jennifer) Hale of Colorado. Bill is also survived by nine grandchildren, Holland, Dylan, Nicholas, Benjamin, Olivia, Ryann, Payton, Zoe and Colton. He was the brother of Chub Hale and Annis Draiss and was pre- deceased by his brother, Nelson Hale. The funeral service for Bill will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2014, 11 a.m. at the Wm. Leahy Funeral Home, 336 Third St., Troy with Rev. Anthony Ligato, pastor of St. Jude the Apostle Church in Wynantskill, officiating. Relatives and friends are invited to attend and may call at the funeral home Tuesday from 3 to 7 p.m. Interment Elmwood Hill Cemetery, Troy. To remember Bill in a special way the family requests that donations be made to The Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675 or on line at woundedwarriorproject.org.
Rev. Frank Adams Halse Jr.
Rev. Frank Adams Halse Jr. was born prematurely on a kitchen table in Troy, NY. The doctor put him into a shoebox lined with cotton balls, then surrounded the box with quart jars of hot water, and told his parents, Frank and Anna (Chatfield) Halse, to pray. He survived that first night and went on to lead a life filled with wonder, laughter, and compassion. Frank died at age 86, surrounded by loved ones, at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, NY on March 9, 2014. He was a bard of bad puns and a poet of both the lives of ordinary people and the endless grace of God. He loved climbing in the Adirondacks, all-night bridge games by the campfire in Osceola, and swimming with loons in Maine. He believed that communion could be jelly doughnuts and black coffee as easily as it could be bread and wine, and that tomatoes were meant to be eaten the instant they were picked, as long as you remembered to bring the salt shaker into the garden with you. He was proud to be known as a crossword puzzle snob and refused to write with anything that was not a black, felt-tip pen. Frank Halse raged against incompetent and corrupt politicians, cynical preachers who manipulated the faithful, most capitalists, split infinitives, and slow drivers who clogged the passing lane. His wrath was mightiest against those who hurt the vulnerable and the weak. He served as a crew chief for P-51 Mustang planes in the 8th Air Force, 55th Fighter Group, 343rd fighter squadron during the waning days of WWII. The horrors he experienced at the newly-liberated Dachau concentration camp transformed him and led him to dedicate his life to the teachings of Jesus Christ. He graduated from Boston University School of Theology in 1955 and served for nearly thirty years as a United Methodist minister in churches across Northern and Central New York, and as chaplain at the Wesley Foundation of Potsdam and at Syracuse University. Many of the college students under his care became like sons and daughters to him. Their accomplishments and growth were a great source of pride and their continued presence in his life was a treasured blessing. In addition to his pastoral work, Frank ran counseling centers in Baldwinsville and North Syracuse. Frank was preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Joyce Holcomb and his sister, Janet Lashomb. He is survived by his sisters: Norma Skinner and Barbara Gayle; his daughters, Laurie (Scot) Larrabee, and Lisa Stevens; his grandchildren, Stephanie Anderson, Jessica (Ryan) Barsuch, Meredith (Steven) Cheryba, Christian (Maria) Larrabee, and Ryan, April, and Tiffany Stevens; as well as four great-grandchildren, his beloved niece, Rev. Barrie Lyn Foster, and nephews Karl and Keith Wenzel. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to the Adirondack Mountain Club (www.adk.org) in honor of Frank’s lifelong love of that region. Services will be private.
Williams, Marjorie E. (Brooke)
SCOTIA/ PALM HARBOR, Fla. Marjorie E. (Brooke) Williams, 83, passed away March 9, 2014 - Our loving mother and our beloved grandmother entered eternal life after a long and courageous battle. Born in Concord, N.H. to the late John and Alice Burrell Brooke on September 14, 1930. Marjorie moved to Troy where she attended Troy High School. Marjorie married her childhood sweetheart, Richard Williams; together they raised four children. Marjorie enjoyed being a stay at home mother. Together they moved to Safety Harbor, Fla. in 1985. Then resided in Palm Harbor in 1994, where she enjoyed a very active lifestyle. Marjorie belonged to many golf and bowling leagues. She enjoyed cruises, gambling and playing cards. In the summer months they returned to the Great Sacandaga Lake to enjoy their camp with many family and friends. Marjorie leaves behind her beloved cat, Camper that she found and nursed to good health. Marjorie was predeceased by husband, Richard Williams; son, Ricky; daughter, Marjorie Caron Wagner; and her sister's, Constance (Volney) Ashe and Frances Locke. Survivors include her daughter, Diane (Williams) Clancy of Scotia; and her son, Craig (Amy) Williams of Venice, Fla.; son-in-law, Robert Wagner of West Sand Lake; her sister, Beverly (Dominic) Ali from Spring Hill, Fla.; and brother-in-law, George Locke of Fla. Marjorie adored her seven grandchildren, Jennifer (Robert) Kells, Valerie (Donald) Dingee, Robert (Courtney) Wagner, Tabitha Clancy, Melissa (Paul) Kietzman, Casey (Jennifer) Williams, and Corey Williams. Eleven great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews also survive her. Relatives and friends may call at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc., 276 Pawling Avenue, Troy on Thursday from 5-7:30 p.m. with a service to follow at 7:30 p.m. with Rev. James Smith, Pastor of the East Glenville Community Church, officiating. Interment will be in Elmwood Hill Cemetery, Troy. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Marjorie Williams to the American Cancer Society , One Penny Lane, Latham, NY 12110. For guest book and service directions, visit brycefh.com.
Richard B. Newell – THS 1960
BRUNSWICK - Richard B. Newell, 71, of North Lake Avenue, Town of Brunswick, died Sunday, March 2, 2014 at the Wesley Health Care Center in Saratoga Springs, following a brief illness. Born in Troy, he was the son of the late Joseph P. and Edna R. Weir Newell and was a graduate of Troy High School, Class of 1960. Mr. Newell was a U.S. Navy Veteran having served from 1961 to 1966. He was employed as an Electrician for various companies in the Capital District. He had been employed by the National Savings Bank in Albany as Maintenance Supervisor and later at 90 State Street in the same position for over 25 years, until retiring. Richard was a member of Brunswick #1 Volunteer Fire Department and the Electrical workers union of Albany. One of his favorite pastimes was bartending and being with his family and friends. He was predeceased by his two brothers; Thomas and Gary Newell. His survivors include his loving wife, Janice Flanigan Newell, whom he married on June 12, 1976, his sons; Scott (Melissa) Newell of Valley Falls and Jason Newell of Brunswick, his grandchildren Lance Corporal Nicholas H. Newell, U.S. Marine Corps of Okinawa, Japan , David C. Newell of Burnt Hills, Jesse and Lauren Holt, both of Valley Falls, his brother–in-law; John (Rose) Flanigan of Ogdensburg, NY, his sister-in-law; Doris Newell of Clifton Park, also survived by several nieces, nephews, his best friend; Anita McCabe of Valley Falls and his faithful canine companion; “Kenzie”. Funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 7, 2014 at the Morris-Stebbins-Miner & Sanvidge Funeral Home 312 Hoosick Street, Troy. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the funeral home on Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Inurnment with military honors will be held on Monday, March 10, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville. The family requests that contributions in memory of Richard be made to Joslin Diabetes Center and Joslin Clinic, One Joslin Place, Boston, MA 02215 or to the Neurological Unit at Albany Medical Center, 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY 12208. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted by the family to the Morris-Stebbins-Miner & Sanvidge Funeral Home 312 Hoosick Street Troy, New York 12180. Phone (518) 272-3930
Ann M. Hagy – THS 1952
RENSSELAER - Ann M. Hagy, 79, of Evergreen Place died Monday, March 3, 2014, at Saratoga Hospital after a long illness. Born in Troy, she was daughter of the late Vernon M. Pierson and Mazie Horton Pierson. She had resided in various areas on the Capital District and was a graduate of Troy High School class of 1952. Mrs. Hagy was greeting card manager for Hallmark Cards for CVS in Delmar and Wynantskill for 25 years, retiring in 2007. She loved to sew and play cards and was a member of the First Reformed Church of Wynantskill. Survivors include her former husband, Rev. Arthur Hagy of Troy; three sons, Mark (Nancy) Hagy, Sunbury, PA, Paul (Sheryll) Hagy, Gansevoort and Dr. Timothy (Joanne) Hagy, Spencerport, NY; a daughter, Susan (Kenneth) Brooks, Stony Creek, NY; a sister, Jane E. Pierson, Wynantskill; her grandchildren, Isaac and Laura Hagy, Julie (Eric) Blakely, Steven (Elyse) Hagy, Sondra (Michael Gill) Krieg, Rebecca (Anthony Cisneros) Kain, William (Shaylan Watts) Kain and Ryan Brooks and her great grandchildren, Nora Lynn Blakely and Julian, Anthony, Nathaniel and Nayeli Kain. Relatives and friends may call at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc. 276 Pawling Avenue Troy on Wednesday, March 5, 2014 from 6-8 PM. Funeral service will be held Thursday at 11 AM at the funeral home with Rev. Donald Pangburn, officiating. Interment will be in Elmwood Hill Cemetery Troy. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in memory of Ann M. Hagy to the American Heart Association 440 New Karner Road Albany, NY 12205. For a private family guest book and service directions, visit www.brycefh.com.
McCoy, Shaun Paul – THS 1965
LATHAM Shaun Paul McCoy, 66, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 25, 2014. Shaun was born on June 15, 1948 at Saratoga Hospital to Edward and Marie McCoy of Franklin Street, Saratoga Springs. The family soon moved to Troy, where Shaun attended St. Francis de Sales Elementary School and Catholic Central High School. He graduated from Troy High School in 1965. Shaun was employed by the New York State Office of General Services until being called to active duty with the U.S. Navy in 1966, serving as a sonar technician aboard the USS Hammerberg (DE-1015), a destroyer escort. Shaun was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1968, then he worked as a computer technician for General Electric and Honeywell. He was also employed by a number of smaller computer companies before returning to the state of New York as a computer technician with the Public Service Commission in Albany. Shaun enjoyed listening to music, collecting records and 45s, writing poetry and watching WWE wrestling with his son, Brendan. He was loved and cherished by his family and will be missed by everyone who knew him and loved him. Shaun is survived by his beloved wife of 33 years, Carmela Nucci McCoy; his loving son, Brendan of Watervliet; his brother, Patrick (Jean) of Clifton Park; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Patricia and William Halayko of Latham, as well as eight nephews, one niece, eight great-nieces and great-nephews and many cousins throughout the area. Shaun's family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the many health care professionals who have assisted Shaun throughout the years. A special thank you is offered to Drs. DeSantis, Kansas, Foreman, Siebeneck and Cagino. Shaun's funeral will be held from the Bowen & Parker Bros. Funeral Home, 97 Old Loudon Road, Latham on Friday, February 28, 2014 at 9:15 a.m. and at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Latham where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. Geoffrey D. Burke, pastor. Interment will follow in the Gerald B.H. Solomon-Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville, at 12 p.m. For those who prefer, donations, in Shaun's memory, may be made to the Northeastern Association of the Blind at Albany, 301 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12206 or at naba-vision.org. Please visit bowenandparkerbros.com to light a candle, leave a special message for the family and for directions.
Gratton, Edward A.
NORTH GREENBUSH Edward A. Gratton, 60, of Winter Street Ext., died suddenly on Monday, February 24, 2014 at his residence. Born in the Philippines, he was the dedicated son of the late Ernest F. Gratton and Aurora Ammang Gratton whom he missed immensely. Ed was husband of Danette M. Hildebrandt Gratton. He resided in the Troy and North Greenbush areas for most of his life. Ed was a graduate of Troy High School and Hudson Valley Community College. For the past 30 years, Ed was a dedicated and highly respected employee of the Kayser-Roth Corporation in Greensboro, N.C. Ed had a passion for restoring classic British sports cars. He enjoyed talking politics and camping with friends and family. Ed was a wonderful dad who loved, nurtured and supported his family every day. He was a funny, easy-going, caring, inspirational man and the guy could fix just about anything to which he set his mind. His love for family allowed him to work tirelessly to get them back into the home they lost to a fire three years ago. This spirit and selflessness will never be forgotten by his wife and children who cherished him so deeply. Survivors, in addition to his wife, include his beloved children, Ryan E. Gratton, Devon N. Gratton and Taylor M. Gratton, all of North Greenbush. He is survived by an aunt, Ida Myers; several cousins, Carol (Wayne) Burch and Wayne David (Christine) Burch, Rebecca (the late Christopher) Burch, Ed (Kristine) and David (Sue) Miner; his mother-in-law, Jean (the late Raymond J.) Hildebrandt; his brother-in-law, Daniel (Marta) Hildebrandt; nephew, Gabriel; niece, Sara; and devoted canine companion, Damien. Relatives and friends may call at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc., 276 Pawling Ave., Troy on Friday, February 28, from 4 to 8 p.m. Funeral service will be held Saturday at 8:30 a.m. at the funeral home and at 9 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Church, Troy where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. Randall Patterson, pastor. Interment, St. Joseph's Cemetery, Troy. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Edward A. Gratton to the American Heart Association , 440 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205. For a private family guest book and service directions, visit brycefh.com.
Kallenburg, Douglas – THS 1957
WYNANTSKILL Douglas Kallenburg, 74, devoted husband of Brenda P. Kallenburg for 50 years, passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2014 at home. Born in Troy on December 9, 1939, Mr. Kallenburg graduated with the class of 1957 from Troy High School, where he was an honor student, yearbook editor-in-chief, member of the tennis team and student council. Mr. Kallenburg wrote a thesis on individual retirement accounts at Rutgers University, from where he graduated in June 1976. Starting as a proof clerk at Home Savings Bank, Mr. Kallenburg enjoyed a successful career in the banking industry, working 21 years in commercial lending with HSBC (formerly Marine Midland Bank) prior to retiring in 2005. In his retirement, Mr. Kallenburg was a board member of the Capital District Community Loan Fund, a non-profit lender to other non-profits and to under-served and low-income individuals. He also was actively involved with the Troy Rehabilitation & Improvement Program, taught night school classes, and hosted "straight talk," a financial blog for small business owners. Mr. Kallenburg enjoyed helping others in the community and contributed time to the North Greenbush Public Library and the Arts Center in Troy. He also enjoyed woodworking and built much of the furniture in his home. Mr. Kallenburg is survived by his son, Christopher Kallenburg; his wife, Margaret Hudson; and daughters, Jennifer and Amanda, and son Eric Kallenburg, his wife Cheryl Kallenburg and daughters, Jean and Rebecca. Mr. Kallenburg's wife Brenda predeceased him in 2009. Services will be private to the family. Contributions to the Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program, Inc. or TRIP, 415 River St., Troy, NY 12180 in memory of Mr. Kallenburg would be appreciated.
Grimmick, John E. Sr.
TROY John E. Grimmick Sr., 99, retired Troy assistant police chief, died peacefully on Thursday, February 20, 2014 at Van Rensselaer Manor, surrounded by family. He was predeceased by his wife of nearly 50 years, Alberta Bush Grimmick, on April 27, 2000. Born in Troy on May 10, 1914 to Anna McGraw and William Grimmick, John spent most of his life as a Troy resident, attending St. Patrick's School, School 18, where he was in the first graduating class, and Troy High School. He was a long-time resident of the Beman Park area, but had to move to his daughter's house in Brunswick in November 2009 due to health issues. In February 2012, he moved to B3 at Van Rensselaer Manor. John was a communicant of Our Lady of Victory in Troy. Previously, he was a communicant of St. Paul the Apostle Church for more than 50 years and attended the final Mass on May 30, 2009. He was a member of the Holy Name Society. He was the Scoutmaster for Troop 50. John is survived by his son, John E. (Kathleen) Grimmick Jr. of West Sand Lake, and daughter, Anne (Patrick) Poleto of Brunswick. He had four grandsons, Vincent and Patrick Poleto of Brunswick, and John E. III and William of West Sand Lake. Although the second oldest, John was predeceased by eight brothers and sisters, and most of their spouses, William, Helen, Eleanor (Bernard) Miner, Henry (Marge), Walter (Mary), James (Blanche), Betty Jane (Frank) O'Brien, and Marion Spiak. He is survived by his brother-in-law, James Spiak, and three sisters-in-law, Betty Jean, Shirley, and Barbara Grimmick. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Known as "the Chief" to many, John joined the Troy police force on May 7, 1947 as a patrolman. He worked his way up the ranks as a sergeant, detective, and assistant chief. In 1961, he was appointed acting chief of police after Chief James Doherty retired and before John Givney took over. He retired in 1979. Even after retirement, John still enjoyed walking the downtown streets. He was a life time member of the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police. This past September he was honored for his years of service in the Troy PBA at a ceremony where he was presented with a badge, watch, medallion, and several proclamations. Many people also knew John from his nearly 50 years of working at various Grand Union supermarkets. He spent several years at the store on Hoosick Road in Brunswick. He was still stocking the dog food aisle in his mid-80s and only stopped working because the Latham store closed. John was a life member of the Brunswick No. 1 Fire Company. He originally joined in the 1940s and became active again after retiring from the Troy Police Department. He was a senior captain in the fire police. John received many awards including several for high drill attendance and Fire Police of the Year. For many years, John manned the office during the day and enjoyed visiting with the other members. John enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in 1942. He was stationed in the Brooklyn Naval Yard and was honorably discharged in 1945 as a specialist (port security) first class. Prior to enlistment, he worked for the Ford Motor Company in Green Island and at the Watervliet Arsenal. For many years, John enjoyed vacationing with his family at Hampton Beach, N.H. John enjoyed long car rides and would often visit his brother Jim and his wife Blanche in Brooklyn. He and Alberta took several trips to visit his brother Bill and his wife Betty Jean in Jacksonville, Fla. In their later years, John and Alberta often dined out, with Duncan's Dairy Bar being their favorite breakfast spot and Wally's in Greenwich their favorite dinner spot. The family wishes to thank the B3 staff at the Van Rensselaer Manor for the wonderful and loving care shown to John while he was there. The funeral will be on Tuesday, February 25, 2014 at 8:30 a.m. from the Doran Funeral Home, 9 S. Lake Ave., Troy and at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Church, Troy where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. The interment will be Wednesday at the Grandview Cemetery in Shaftsbury, Vt. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the funeral home on Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. Donations in John's memory may be made to the Brunswick No. 1 Fire Company, 566 Hoosick Road, Troy, NY 12180 or Our Lady of Victory Church, 55 N. Lake Ave., Troy NY 12180.
Quinones-Austin, Ava C. – 11th Grade Student at THS in 2014
TROY Ava C. Quinones-Austin, 16, of
Williams, Forrest "Pete" – THS 1950
MELROSE Forrest "Pete" Williams passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2014 at his home, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's Disease. He was 81. Pete was born on October 21, 1932 in
Carolyn Stoddard Gabriel
DeFazio, John D. – THS 1955
SAND LAKE John D. DeFazio, 77, of
Leonard W. "Lenny" Duncan Sr.
Age 75, a lifelong resident and third generation dairy farmer, Lenny died peacefully, Thursday, January 30, 2014, at his home with his devoted family by his side, following a long illness. Born November 11, 1938, in Troy, Mr. Duncan was the son of the late Lynn and Ethel (Golden) Duncan and for over 52 years the loving husband of Ruth (Maxwell) Duncan of Brunswick, who survives. Lenny and Ruth were married on September 16, 1961. Mr. Duncan attended the local district school and graduated from Troy High School. Throughout his adult life, Leonard worked on the Duncan Dairy Farm with both his father and grandfather. After their passing, he assumed ownership of the farm. Following a devastating fire in 1995, he rebuilt "The Duncan Farm," and continued to enjoy working it with his wife, three sons and daughter. In addition to working the farm, Mr. Duncan worked several part time jobs including driving a school bus, custom farm work for area farmers, and driving a milk delivery truck. As rising costs made it more difficult to continue farming, Leonard chose to sell property for the construction of the R.O.U.S.E.S. project in Brunswick to help his neighbors and community. Mr. Duncan was a 35-year member of the B.P.O.E. Brunswick Lodge #2556, a past chairman of Agway, and bowled for many years. He enjoyed traveling with his wife and family to the New Hampshire coast, visiting area casinos, camping, attending "Farm Days", and especially seeing Disney World with his grandchildren. In addition to his wife, Leonard is survived by his four children, Leonard W. "Lenny" Duncan Jr., John R. "Jack" Duncan, Linda E. Duncan, and Todd M. (Kathy) Duncan, all of Brunswick, a brother, Robert (Joyce) Duncan, a sister, Mildred Johnson, six beloved grandchildren, Katie, T.J., Kayley, Ashley, Josh and Grace Duncan, his God-daughter, Donnamarie Johnson, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister and two brothers-in-law, the late Ruth Duncan Gardeneer, Don Gardeneer Sr. and Robert Johnson. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, February 4, 2014, at 10:00 A.M. at the Howard B. Tate & Son Funeral Home Inc., 2237 New York Route 7, located in Raymertown. Burial will follow at Eagle Mills Cemetery in Brunswick. Relatives and friends are invited to call at the funeral home on Monday, February 3, 2014, from 3:00-7:00 P.M. At the request of the family, contributions if desired, rather than flowers may be made to Community Hospice, 295 Valley View Blvd., Rensselaer, New York 12144 in memory of Leonard W. Duncan Sr.
Martin "Marty" B. Claydon.
Age 90 of Conway Court in Troy, Marty passed away peacefully in his sleep Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014, after a long illness. Born in Waterford, Martin was son of the late Burlton and Florence Brott Claydon. He had resided in Troy for most of his life and attended Troy High School. His early life was spent living on the R.P.I. campus where he and his family labored as painters. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in December 1942 at age 17, serving as a torpedo man on a PT Boat in the South Pacific and later as a shore patrolman in the Philippines. He earned his high school diploma while serving our country and received an honorable discharge in February 1946. He was awarded several medals including the Good Conduct Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Medal, American Theatre Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal and Victory Medal. Martin worked at R.P.I. for the next 40 years, where he was head of their print shop which he helped create. He also started a Tennis Club and Model Railroader's Club at the college. He went on to work at Williams Press and Sutin-Burgess Printers. He also loved his work as a part-time photographer and was an avid train buff. He also loved spending time with his family, working on his model trains, traveling, boating and fishing. He was a member of former Crescent Boat Club and the Postenkill VFW. He is survived by his daughter, Colleen VanGuilder, and son in-law Clifton VanGuilder; two grandchildren, Benjamin and Molly Rae; along with a sister in-law, Norma Claydon of Troy; and several nieces and nephews. He was brother of the late Milton Claydon and Helen Claydon Hyde.
Relatives and friends are invited to a commemorative service at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014, at the Marra Funeral Home. Spring interment will be at Saratoga National Cemetery. Many thanks to "Martin's Angels" for providing such wonderful care to him during his illness. We are also very grateful to the Stratton V.A. Medical Center for their many years of tender loving care to Martin. Donations would be greatly appreciated to the Voluntary Service Fund, Stratton V.A. Medical Center, 113 Holland Ave. Albany, NY 12208.
Van Pelt, Daniel Owen
MELROSE Daniel Owen Van Pelt, 59, passed Saturday, January 25, 2014 after a long and courageous fight with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family. Born in Kansas City, Kansas, he is the son of William George (late Thelma) and Arlene Van Pelt. Dan grew up in Chatham and Troy and graduated from Troy High School and Siena College. He worked for Ginsberg's Foods of Hudson for 25 years and enjoyed his day-to-day interactions with all of his accounts. He was a devoted family man to his wife, Kathy, of nearly 28 years and his daughter and son, Krysten and Matthew. He enjoyed camping, family vacations to the beach, especially Cape Cod and Myrtle Beach. A self-proclaimed "magician," Dan loved to entertain or humor a crowd with his tricks or jokes. He also had a love of all animals, especially his dogs - his loyal companions. In his free time, Dan enjoyed home improvement projects and was a sports enthusiast, and especially loved golf, tennis, bowling and his favorite team - the New York Yankees. Dan is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen Duchowny Van Pelt; his children, Krysten (Ed) and Matthew (Courtney); his brothers, Bill (Kim) Van Pelt and Rich (Kim) Van Pelt; sister-in-law, Dawn (predeceased by his brother Bob). Also survived by brothers, Don (Kathryn) Carrier, Ray (Steve) Carrier; and a sister, Lisa (Tony) Marrano; mother-in-law, Jane (late Gene); cousins, C.J. Eisenhauer, Steve Peene, Scott Bushnell, Carole Corcoran, and Linda Thompkins; and his many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his long-time best friends Bob and Colleen Kewley. The family would like to thank Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital, especially his anonymous stem cell donor; and Dr. Gabi and Dr. Soiffer for their loving care. Relatives and friends may call at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc., 276 Pawling Avenue, Troy on Tuesday, January 28, 2014 from 4-8 p.m. Funeral service will be held Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Michael Gorchov, Rector of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Troy, officiating. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may send memorial contributions to Be The Match, 3001 Broadway Street N.E. Minneapolis, MN 55413 or Homeward Bound Dog Rescue of NY, 50 John Street, Schenectady, NY 12305 or consider being a stem cell and/or blood donor. For a private family guest book and service directions, visit brycefh.com.
Farrell, Bernie J. – THS 1955
NASSAU Bernie J. Farrell, 76, of Waterbury Road in Nassau, died on Friday, January 24, 2014, at his residence after a long illness. Born in Troy, he was son of the late Edward Farrell and Estelle Lewchanin Farrell. He had resided in Troy most of his life, moved to Watervliet in 2009, and was a 1955 graduate of Troy High School. Bernie was a clerk for New York State Department of Labor for 57 years, retiring in 2012. He was a member of the Watervliet Lodge of Elks 1500. Bernie was a worker, but enjoyed fishing, bowling, watching football, and was an avid pool player. Survivors include a daughter, Laurie (Charles) Halvax of Nassau; a stepdaughter, Valerie Cramer of Troy; two grandchildren, James (Bridget) Nash of Wynantskill and Jacquelyn Nash of Albany; a great-grandchild, Alexis Nash; his siblings, Arlene Hug of Latham, Mary Farrell of Wynantskill, Kathy Hawkins of Colonie, Greg (Cathy) Farrell of Troy, Kevin (Joan) Farrell of Connecticut; and several nieces and nephews, and close friends who meant the world to him. He was predeceased by his brothers, Edward G. (Joyce), Mike, and John Farrell. Relatives and friends may call at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc., 276 Pawling Ave., Troy on Wednesday, January 29, 2014 from 4 to 7 p.m. Funeral service will be held Thursday, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home and at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church in Troy where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. John Yanas, pastor. Interment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Troy. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Bernie J. Farrell to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital , 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105, an organization he believed in and supported. For a private family guest book and service directions, visit brycefh.com.
Barth, Warren W. – THS 1942
CLIFTON PARK Warren W. Barth, 91, of Broadleaf Court died on Sunday, January 19, 2014, at St. Peter's Hospice Inn in Albany after a long illness. Born in Troy, he was son of the late William Barth and Edna Leseur Barth and husband for 60 years of June Ott Barth. He was raised in Troy and resided in Clifton Park for the past 45 years and was a graduate of Troy High School, class of 1942, and earned his bachelor of arts degree from Syracuse University. Mr. Barth was a customer relations manager for Cluett, Peabody & Company in Troy for 42 years, retiring in 1986. He was an active member, elder and official greeter for Christ Community Reformed Church in Clifton Park and an Army Air Corps veteran of World War II. Survivors, in addition to his wife, include two daughters, Susan (James) Campbell of Syracuse and Lauren (Joseph) Hewes of Shrewsbury, Mass.; four grandchildren, Jonathan, David and Brent Campbell and Emma Hewes; a brother, Gordon (Patricia) Barth of Apache Junction, Ariz., and several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may call at Christ Community Reformed Church, 1010 Route 146, Clifton Park on Monday, January 27, 2014 from 10 to 11 a.m. with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Dr. Johan G. Bosman, pastor, officiating. Interment will be in the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Warren W. Barth to the Christ Community Reformed Church Memorial Fund, 1010 Route 146, Clifton Park, NY 12065 or the Community Hospice of Saratoga County, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. For a private family guest book and service directions, visit brycefh.com.
Crosby, Michael J.
TROY Michael Julian Crosby, 43, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 17, 2014 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Michael was born in Columbia, S.C., and was the beloved son of Lynn and Cynthia Jean Crosby Shaw. He attended Troy High School where he played football. Michael was a workaholic and loved driving a tow truck, which he did since high school. He worked as a mechanic's assistant and tow truck driver for H & V Towing. He also worked for CDTA for 10 years. Michael loved the outdoors, especially fishing and camping. His greatest passion was spending time with his wife. Survivors include his beloved wife, Virginia Plante Crosby; his parents, Cynthia Jean and Lynn B. Shaw; cherished brothers, Matthew Brian (Rose) Shaw and Robert (Amanda) Mitchell; nieces and nephews, Morgan, Cassidy, Nick, Caden, RJ and Isabella; uncle, Don Roberts; sister, Jennifer Plante; second mother, "Lady" Suzanne Plante; "adopted" father, Vartan Jerian Sr.; godchildren, Jack, Isabella and Kayleana; faithful canine companion, Aurora; he is also survived by many wonderful cousins and friends. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 21, at 10 a.m. at the Parker Bros. Memorial Funeral Home, Inc., 2013 Broadway, Watervliet. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the funeral home Monday from 4 until 7 p.m. To light a memorial candle or leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit parkerbrosmemorial.com.
Gooley, Charles F.
EAST POESTENKILL Charles F. Gooley, 84, of
John J. Fisher – THS 1965
HOOD, Jeanette Florence – THS 1955
Obituary received on 1/10/14, from Ed Robinson, THS '55.
Jeanette Florence Hood, 75, died on Sunday, Feb. 17, 2013, at the Hospice House in
Nancy Ashley Kelly – Faculty at School 18
LATHAM - Our beloved mother and best friend passed away on the afternoon of January 6, 2014. She was the daughter of the late
Joyce, Donald P. – THS Faculty and
Eddy, Louise Clum – THS 1943