OBITS: Albany Times Union 24 Aug 2004; Albany, Albany co., New York text-formatted by W. David Samuelsen for The USGenWeb Archives Project *********************************************************************** Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/ny/nyfiles.htm *********************************************************************** Source: Albany Times Union http://www.timesunion.com Braden Jr., Stephen M. EARLTON Stephen M. Braden, Jr., beloved son of Diane and Stephen, Sr. passed on unexpectedly on August 21, 2004. Stephen was born on February 18, 1985. Stephen, a graduate of Cairo-Durham High School leaves behind his parents; his brother, Johnathan. Stephen will also be missed by his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. George Guldernsterr of South Cairo and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Beers of Earlton; maternal aunts and uncles, include Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Rossano of Earlton, Ms. Sharon VanAlstyne of Coxsackie and Mr. and Mrs. James Dempsey of Windham; his paternal aunts and uncles, include Mr. and Mrs. Richard Braden of Acra, Mr. Daniel Braden of Acra and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Braden of Lake Katrine. He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. William P. Braden of Palenville. Stephen's zest for living life to the fullest will be remembered forever by his numerous cousins and all who knew him. Stephen was recently working for the Columbia Memorial Hospital of Hudson and Rite Aid of Catskill. Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend calling hours at the Richards Funeral Home, 383 Bross Street, Cairo on Tuesday evening, August 24, 2004 from 5 to 9 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church on Wednesday, August 25, 2004 at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in the family plot at St. Mary's Parish Cemetery. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Bruno Sr., Frank RAVENA Frank (Gee) Bruno Sr., 84, died Monday, August 23, 2004 at the Hospice Inn at St. Peter's Hospital, Albany. Frank was born in Coeymans and has lived in Ravena most of his life. Frank was employed for many years by Pemberton and Mountain View Bus Lines. Later, he was the water treatment supervisor for the Village of Ravena. He also served as a sergeant of the Village Police force. Survivors include his wife June (Mergendahl) Bruno; sons, Frank (Linda) Bruno Jr. and Rocky Bruno; nephew, David (Darlene) Mergendahl; brothers, Bert Bruno, Louis Bruno, Jim (Gerry) Bruno, and John (Carol) Bruno; sisters, Josephine (Bill) DeBarthe, Marie McCormick and Gloria (Joe) Campoli; grandchildren, Jonathan Bruno, Amy (Patrick) McDonald, Sarah (Robert) Bruno-Robichaud, Rafaella (Scott) Dewsbury and Ashley Bruno; great-grandchildren, Josephine, Alexis, Jessica, Madison, Isabelle, Elizabeth, Ciera Jo, Jacob Francis, Austen and Robert Joseph; grandnephew, Jonathan; and many nieces, nephews; grandnieces and nephews. Frank was predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Anna Bruno; sisters, Rose Schwalb and Nancy Pucci; brother, Joe Bruno; brothers-in-law, Harold Schwalb and Charlie Pucci; sisters-in-law, Ruth Bruno and Mary Bruno. Mr. Bruno's family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff of the Hospice Inn for their care, kindness and support. Friends may call at the Babcock Funeral Home, Ravena on Wednesday, August 25 from 5 to 7 p.m. A funeral Mass will be held 9:30 Thursday morning, August 26 at St. Patrick's Church, Ravena. Burial will follow in St. Patrick's Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Frank may be made to St. Patrick's Church, 21 Main St., Ravena, NY 12143 or to Senior Projects of Ravena, P.O. Box 142, Ravena, NY 12143. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/24/2004 - 8/25/2004. Bruschi, David ALBANY David Bruschi, 82, died on August 22, 2004 in Albany, N.Y. He was a NYC hotel employee for 35 years and a former Italian caribinieri. He was the beloved father of John; father-in-law of Gloria; loving grandfather of David and Anthony. Reposing Joseph V. McGrath Funeral Home, 91-20 37th. Ave., Jackson Heights, N.Y. Visiting Tuesday 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral Wednesday at Memory's Garden Cemetery, Albany. Religious service 2:30 p.m. Interment immediately following. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Burnetter, Stephen (Memoriam) BURNETTER Stephen J. Stephen, it's been eight years since your life was taken away so senselessly that Saturday in August, 1996. It seems like only yesterday that we shared laughs and good times. You will always be in my thoughts my friend. Forever, TK Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Burnetter, Steven (Memoriam) BURNETTER Steven August 24, 1996 In loving memory of Steve. Just when his days seemed brightest, Just when his hopes seemed best, God called him from amongst us To his eternal rest, Sadly missed, but God knows best. Love, Mom and Family and Son, Joey Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Davis, Margaret (Memoriam) DAVIS Margaret Happy Birthday Mom and Gram. This day will always be special to us. Love You Always, Helen, Kathy, Skip and Chris Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. De Porte, David SLINGERLANDS David De Porte, 88, August 22, 2004 at Albany Medical Center. Former president of Van de Car, De Porte & Johnson, Inc. He was the advertising and public relations agency in Albany. Born in Ithaca, N.Y., he graduated from Milne High School in Albany and studied sculpture at Yale University School of Fine Arts and painting at the Art Students' League in New York City. His early professional experience included mural painting, with commissions in Kingston and Oneonta, N.Y., Los Angeles and Mexico City. He was the assistant muralist on the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company's 76-foot murals at the New York and San Francisco World's Fairs of 1939. During World War II, he served in the Army Special Services unit. Following Army service from 1942 to 1946, he worked in New York City advertising agencies as a visualizer and copywriter on national accounts, including Yardley of London, Texaco and The Emily Post Institution. For several years, he also produced shooting scripts and illustrations for crime magazines, comic books and designed illustrated souvenir programs for Broadway and off-Broadway productions. In 1952, he returned to Albany where he worked in local advertising agencies and in 1959, opened his own advertising firm. In 1961, he helped found the Van de Car, De Porte & Johnson agency of which he was president from 1970 to 1975. He was the former director of the Hudson Valley Chapter of the Association of Industrial Advertisers. His national awards included citations from the Creative Design League in New York City, the Award of Excellence from Standard Packing Corp., the highest merit award from Financial World and two awards from creative excellence from the Direct Mail Advertising Association. His work was commended by advertising and paper industry magazines and several of his more than 50 articles on historical aspects of papermaking were translated into Spanish and Portuguese for South American publication. After leaving the advertising agency field in 1975, he became public relations consultant to public radio station WAMC-FM in Albany, then operated by Albany Medical College and served on a national advisory panel in Washington, D.C. for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. When the magazine New York Alive was launched, he assisted in planning and guiding the advertising program that helped sustain it. During these years, he continued as a consultant to his former agency. His biography appeared in Who's Who in the East and was listed in the 38th edition of Who's Who in America. He was the son of the late Joseph and Sophie Gershoy De Porte. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Katherine Thompson De Porte; father of David H. De Porte of New York City and Jean De Porte Wheeler (Morris) of Malta; grandfather of Maia. Friends are invited to a celebration of his life at his home at 17 Maple Ave., Slingerlands on Wednesday, August 25 from 4-7 p.m. Those wishing to remember David may make contributions to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, 611 Granite Springs Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/24/2004 - 8/25/2004. DiDonna, Gary Wayne CALIFORNIA Gary Wayne DiDonna, 49, son of the late William and Lempi DiDonna. Born in Schenectady and attended Schenectady City Schools. Survived by five brothers and five sisters and many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday at 1 p.m. at Memory's Garden Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Emerich, Merilyn TROY, Ohio Merilyn Lodge Emerich, 76, formerly of Loudonville, died Saturday, August 21, 2004, in Troy, Ohio. She was the daughter of the late Ronald and Marjorie Williamson Lodge, and the wife of the late Robert W. Emerich. Mrs. Emerich graduated from the Albany Academy for Girls in 1945 and received a bachelor of science degree in home economics from Middlebury College in 1949. After graduating from Middlebury she worked for B. Lodge & Co. of Albany, a family owned and operated business until 1954, when she retired to raise her children. She was a member of the Roessleville Presbyterian Church, Colonie, the Bethlehem Grange, the Colonie Art League, and the Albany Artists Group. She is survived by her three loving children, Scott Emerich of Danby, Vt., Deborah E. Blanken of Buffalo Grove, Ill., and Dianne E. Tiedemann of Rochester; four grandchildren, Michael and Katie Tiedemann, Samantha Blanken and Joshua Emerich; and one sister, Joyce Lodge Shaw of Troy, Oh. She was predeceased by a brother, Lt. Bradford Lodge. Funeral services 11:00 a.m. Thursday at the Bowen Funeral Home, 97 Old Loudon Road, Latham. Friends are invited and may call Wednesday 3-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment in Albany Rural Cemetery, Albany. Memorial contributions may be made to the Colonie Art League Inc., P.O. Box 941, Latham, NY 12110 or Hospice of Miami County Inc., P.O. Box 502, Troy, OH 45373. Condolence page and directions at www.bowenfuneralhome.com Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/24/2004 - 8/25/2004. Farmer, Jennie Bett ALBANY Jennie Bett Snookie Farmer entered into eternal life on Friday, August 20, 2004. Born April 29, 1929 in Milton, N.C., the oldest child of the late William Henry Farmer and Jennie Ann Pointer. She was predeceased by her brother James Buck Farmer of Newburgh, N.Y. and survived by Franklin Roosevelt Sunny Farmer Sr. of Albany, N.Y. Survived by daughter, Virginia Gin Farmer of Albany, N.Y.; grandchildren, Patricia A. Prec Farmer of Delmar, N.Y., James A. Farmer of Albany, N.Y. and Stephanie J. Lady Farmer, also of Albany, N.Y. She also leaves a special nephew, Franklin Farmer Jr.; a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Friends and relatives are invited to call Thursday, August 26, 2004 from 5 to 6 p.m. at Praise Tabernacle Church of God, 453 Delaware Ave., Albany, NY 12209. Funeral services will be held at 6 p.m. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/24/2004 - 8/25/2004. Fullem, Bruce KATONAH, N.Y. Bruce Fullem, 56, formerly of East Greenbush, died Saturday, August 21, 2004. Born in Nyack, N.Y., he received a degree in geology from SUNY Albany and a master's in anthropology from the University of Connecticut. He was a 27 year employee of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, & Historic Preservation. Bruce's life has exemplified his commitment to historic preservation, his community, and the environment, with active membership in Boy Scouts, Lions Club, Rensselaer County Environmental Management Council, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Romulus Education Foundation and a career spanning archaeology in the Aleutian Islands, Cyprus, and Texas, Historic Project Review, and park management. He was director of Urban Cultural Parks/Heritage Areas before becoming the manager of the Sampson Cluster of Parks in the Finger Lakes in 1996. He was the manager at John Jay Homestead State Historic Site at the time he was stricken with brain cancer. Bruce will be remembered for his ability to bring people together to solve problems and for his willingness to roll up his sleeves and help with any task. Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Pamela Kavelman; his son, Travis, of Binghamton; his daughter, Leah; his parents, Matthew and Alberta Fullem; and sister, Renee Fullem of Charlton, Mass.; his brother, Robert Fullem of Albany; an uncle, aunts, and eight nieces. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 28 at 1:00 p.m. at John Jay Homestead, 400 Jay St., Katonah, NY. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or to Rotary Scout Reservation, Twin Rivers Council, BSA. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Goodwin, Eligah Michael ALBANY, N.Y. Eligah Michael Goodwin was sent home August 17, 2004. He leaves to mourn his mother, Sajiera M. Goodwin; brother, Shaquan Hayes and sister, Ayshari Blades. He will also be missed by many aunts, uncles and cousins. Eligah was preceded in death by his grandmothers. Funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Gundrum, Maud TROY Maud Turner Gundrum, 79, of Troy went home to be with the Lord Saturday, August 21, 2004. Born in Troy, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Turner and Maud (Everton) Turner and loving wife of the late John J. Gundrum Sr. who died in 2000. She had resided in Troy all her life and attended Troy schools and Troy High School. Mrs. Gundrum was employed during World War II at the Watervliet Arsenal and later at Cluett, Peabody & Company before becoming a full time mother and homemaker. She was active in PTA, Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts as well as an active member for 59 years of the Woodside Presbyterian Church in Troy, serving as Elder and Deacon and an active choir member prior to its closing in December of 2003. She was loving mother of John J. Jack Gundrum Jr. and wife Janet of Latham, Sandra J. Massey and husband Roger of Houston, Texas, Jessie A. Gundrum Syczyk of Troy and Tami S. Peter and husband Eric of Newcomb, N.Y. She was the most loving Granny to her grandchildren, Tyler John and Marlena Christine Peter, both of Newcomb and Joseph K. Maiuro and wife Michele of Hillsboro Shores, Fla. and Lisa G. Maiuro of New York City. Also survived by two great-grandchildren, Gianni and Angelica Maiuro, both of Hillsboro Shores, Fla.; two sisters, Jessie Moeske of Hampton Manor and Marion C. McLoughlin of Troy; two sisters-in-law, Marion Doyle of Hudson Falls and Elinor Turner of Clifton Park and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a sister, Emma Goodman and two brothers Joseph and Thomas Turner. Funeral service will be held Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at the Bryce Funeral Home Inc., 276 Pawling Avenue, Troy with Rev. Dan Wheeler, officiating. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home Tuesday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. Interment Elmwood Hill Cemetery, in Troy. Contributions may be made in memory of Mrs. Gundrum to the Loudonville Presbyterian Church, 22 Old Niskayuna Road, Loudonville, NY 12211. For a private family guest book and service directions, visit www.brycefh.com Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/23/2004 - 8/24/2004. Heaphy, Jane A. ALBANY Jane Ann Heaphy went to her Heavenly home on Saturday, August 21, 2004. Jane was born and educated in Albany and was the daughter of the late J. Robert and Anna Hendrick. She graduated from Albany High School in 1940 and was active with all of the reunion committees and was a member of Better Gamma Chi Sorority. Jane was interested in Republican politics and served as president of the former 14th ward, now known as the 16th ward in Albany. She was president of the Albany County Women's Republican Club and president of the Republican Women of the Legislature. Jane was an alternate delegate to the State Convention in Kansas City. She worked at the State Legislature for 23 years as a secretary for several Senators. She worked for Assemblyman Gordon Burrows after retiring from the Senate Fiscal Office. Jane was active in VFW circles and president of the Ladies Auxiliary of Sheehy-Palmer Post 6776 for eight years. She was also president of Albany County Council Ladies Auxiliary VFW where she was recognized as Auxiliary President of the Year. She helped organize the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Department of New York when they relocated from New York City to Albany. Jane was the first secretary with the department in Albany. She was a census taker in 1960 and 1970. Jane was an active volunteer at the Stratton Veterans Medical Center and Eden Park Nursing Home. She was a member of the Supreme Cootiette Club and served as a V.A.V.S. volunteer for ten years. She was predeceased by her husbands, Paul J. Heaphy, Victor J. Newberry Jr. and Albert Coyle; her brother, Richard Paul Hendrick and her son David J. Newberry. Jane is the devoted mother of Robert A. Newberry of Glenmont, Victor J. Newberry III of Albany, Kenneth P. Newberry of Stephentown, Keith E. Newberry of Fla., Penny E. Newberry of Selkirk and Timothy S. Newberry of Hawaii. Jane is the sister of Robert Hendrick Jr. of Delmar. She is the cherished grandmother of Kimberly A. Spath, Rachel A. Rachel, Michelle F. Kovelman, Robert J., Michael P., Jaclyn A., Kourtney C. and Kristen E. Newberry. She is the great-grandmother of Gabrielle F. and Hanna I. Kovelman, Anthony J. Rachel, Taylor M., Alexandra R., Andrew T. and Cameron P. Newberry. Funeral services will be Thursday morning at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, State St., Albany at 10 o'clock. Calling hours will be Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. at New Comer-Cannon Family Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie (Rt. 155-south of Central Avenue). Interment will be in Memory's Garden. Memorial contributions may be made in Jane's name to V.F.W. National Home for Children, 3573 South Waverly Road, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/24/2004 - 8/25/2004. Horan, Janice M. GUILDERLAND Janice O'Marah Horan, 91, formerly of Albany, died Sunday, August 22, 2004 at Our Lady of Mercy Life Center. Born in Albany, she was the daughter of the late George and Mabel File O'Marah. Mrs. Horan was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing cards. She was predeceased by her husband, William P. Horan in 1997. She was the mother of Robert M. (Carol) Horan, David W. Horan and William R. (Susan) Horan; sister of the late Dorothy McDonald. Also survived by eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be Wednesday morning at 11 a.m. at the McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the funeral home Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. Interment will follow the service at Graceland Cemetery, Albany. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/23/2004 - 8/24/2004. Johnstone, Lucille D. (Dunbar) KNOX, N.Y. Lucille D. (Dunbar) Johnstone, 86, formerly of Bridle Path in Albany, died Sunday, August 22, 2004 at her son's residence in Knox after a lengthy illness. Born in Swanton, Vt., she had been a resident of the Capital Region for many years. Lucille was a physical therapist in New York City for several years before becoming a homemaker. Predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Ruth (Soule) Dunbar, her husband of 45 years, George A. Johnstone Sr., a son, George A. Johnstone Jr., one sister and a brother. Survivors include her son, Thomas J. Johnstone and his wife Denise L. Johnstone of Altamont; a daughter-in-law, Karen Johnstone of N.C.; grandmother to T. J. and Stephanie Johnstone Jr., Sarah and Johnathan Gardiner, Kurtiss and Samantha Johnstone, all of Altamont and Janine and Andrew Curlee and Tisa Johnstone, all of N.C.; great-grandmother of Steven Emery, Jarett Johnstone, Kira and Amanda Gardiner. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral 11:00 a.m. Thursday from the Rockefeller Funeral Home, 165 Columbia Tpk., Rensselaer, N.Y. Friends may call in the funeral home on Wednesday from 4-8. Interment will be in Greenbush Cemetery, East Greenbush. The family has requested that those who wish to remember Lucille make contributions to Community Hospice of Albany, 445 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205 in her memory. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/24/2004 - 8/25/2004. Looby, Dorothy M. HENDERSONVILLE Dorothy M. Looby, of Hendersonville, N.C., died Friday, August 20, 2004. A native of Middletown, N.Y., she served as a home making teacher at Columbia High School in East Greenbush, N.Y. A memorial service will be held in Hendersonville, N.C. Arrangements are by Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Home in Hendersonville. E-mail condolences to www.thosshepherd.com Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Miller, Linda L. FEURA BUSH Linda L. (Linky) Miller, 53 years, of Feura Bush, passed away at her home on Sunday, August 22, 2004. She was born in Albany, N.Y. on March 20, 1951, daughter of the late Lester Dudley and Ada (Quick) Snyder. She was a homemaker, loving mother and grandmother and devoted to her family. She was predeceased by her husband, Donald K. Miller; a brother, John Dudley. Surviving are her daughters, Kimberly Miller and Jennifer Snyder and her husband, Michael; two grandchildren, Kayla Snyder and Mattrix Miller; two sisters, Beverly Bushnell and her husband, John and Tina Munoz and her husband, William; two brothers, Floyd (Butch) Snyder and Edsel Dudley; a stepmother, Betsey Dudley; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be Thursday at 8:30 p.m. at the Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 SR 81, Greenville, N.Y. 12083. Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. As to her wishes, she will be cremated and interred with her husband in Notre Dame Cemetery in South Hadley, Mass. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Monaco, Geraldine (Memoriam) MONACO In loving memory of our Mother, Geraldine who passed away two years ago today, August 24, 2002. Mom, No farewell words were spoken, no time to say good-bye, you were gone before we knew it and only God knew why. You will always be in our hearts. Love, Joan, Sonny, Betty and Sis Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Nesbitt, Victoria (Memoriam) NESBITT Victoria Five long years have passed since you went away. We miss you so much each and every day. I close my eyes each night and see how beautiful and happy you are. You are a special young lady with a heart of gold. I'll love you and miss you forever. Love, Mom, Family and Friends Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Norman, Rose L. ALBANY Rose Lee Norman, 82, entered eternal rest on Thursday, August 19, 2004 at Albany Medical Center Hospital after a long illness. Wife of the late Lee T. Norman. She is survived by two sons, Gartrell and Samuel (Dolores), both of Albany; one daughter, Laura (Roger) of Albany; one sister, Elizabeth Jones (Willie) of Albany; one brother Thedore (Viola) of Willington, S.C.; two grandsons, Robert (Lisa) of Rensselaer and Derrick (Zala) of Albany; five great-grandchildren and a host of devoted family members and friends. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 25, 2004 at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, 58 Alexander St., Albany with the Rev. Robert W. Dixon officiating. Viewing hours will be 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the church prior to the service. Interment, Graceland Cemetery, Albany. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/23/2004 - 8/24/2004. Phillips, William H. WATERVLIET William H. Phillips, 51 died suddenly Saturday, August 21, 2004 at Samaritan Hospital. Born in Troy on July 20, 1953, he is the beloved son of Catherine M. Van Natten Phillips of Watervliet and the late Robert I. Phillips. Bill graduated from Watervliet High School and worked for the past 33 years with the Watervliet Housing Authority. Bill married, Marian A. Borysewicz Phillips, his one true love, 28 years ago. He is also survived by his children, Marc William (Leslie) Phillips of Troy and Eric Matthew Phillips and his fiancee, Reghan Walion of Watervliet. He was the cherished Poppy and Buddy of Alexa Rose and Sidney Ann Phillips. He was the dearly loved brother of Paul (Pat) Phillips of S.C., David Phillips of Petersburgh, Alan (Nancy) Phillips of Ballston Spa and Patti Phillips of Watervliet and the late James T. Phillips Sr. who passed away April 15, 2004. He was the much loved brother-in-law of Deborah M. Phillips and Frank (Linda) Borysewicz. He was the adored son-in-law of the late Frank and Anne (Ruth) Borysewicz. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Billy will always be remembered for his love of family and friends and unselfish giving of himself and his talents. Everyone knew they could call on Bill and he would be there for them. Bill enjoyed putting smiles on the faces of the children in his life, especially his treasured granddaughters, watching his sons compete in sports, and spending lunch time with his mother. Bill was a master on the dance floor and everyone loved to dance with him. He was also an avid gardener, hunter and fisherman. Funeral services will be on Wednesday at 9:15 a.m. from Parker Bros. Memorial and at 10 a.m. in the Sacred Heart of Mary Church, 1511-6th Avenue where Rev. Kenneth Gregory and Rev. John Rooney will concelebrate the Liturgy of Christian Death and Burial. Interment will follow in St. Patrick's Cemetery in Colonie where Bill will be laid to rest next to his brother Jim. Relatives and friends are invited to the funeral home on Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association in loving memory of William H. Phillips. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/23/2004 - 8/24/2004. Poleto, Mary A. ALBANY Mary A. (Bolaski) Poleto, 74, died Sunday, August 22, 2004 at St. Peter's Hospital. Born in Albany, Mary was the daughter of the late Julian and Rose (Schlongowski) Bolaski. She first worked for the A&P Company and later worked for New York State Department of Labor, retiring in 1990. Her devoted husband Andrew Andy Poleto predeceased her in September 2000. She was the beloved mother of James A. Poleto of Albany and Carol Poleto Heneghan and her husband Bart of West Coxsackie; cherished grandmother of Kyley, Jocelyn, Mary Beth, John, Victoria, Micah, Catherine, Moriah, Faith, Andrew, Eliza and Joshua; sister of Leo and Jackie Bolaski, Helen Bradwell, Jane Rheingold, Genevieve Sidoti, the late James Bolaski and the late Stella Marley; sister-in-law of Stella Liskey and John and Norma Poleto. Many nieces and nephews also survive. Funeral services Wednesday at 8:15 a.m. from the McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen St., Albany thence to St. Patrick's Church, Albany at 9:00 a.m. where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Relatives and friends are invited and may call Tuesday 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow the Mass at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/23/2004 - 8/24/2004. Reid, John D. BETHLEHEM John D. Reid, 43, passed away Wednesday, August 18, 2004 at St. Peter's Hospital in Albany. Born in Albany, he was the son of Mary Ehrcke Reid and the late John F. Reid. John was a graduate of Bethlehem Central High School and was employed by Senior Services of Albany as a driver before retirement. John enjoyed his job and was loved by everyone that had the pleasure of riding with him. John enjoyed nature in all its beauty. He is survived by his three sisters, Carol Reid of Albany, Nancy Reid of Burlington, Vt. and Laura Reid of Tupper Lake; his nieces and nephews, Woody, Mary, Willa and Julian Reid. Funeral services were held Monday, August 23, 2004 at the Tebbutt Funeral Home, 633 Central Ave., Albany. Relatives and friends were invited to call at the funeral home from 12:00-1:00 before the service. Interment followed in Holy Spirit Lutheran Cemetery, Glenmont. Donations in John's memory may be made to St. Peter's Hospital Foundation, Inc., 317 S. Manning Blvd. 12208. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/22/2004 - 8/24/2004. Rooney, Hugh James ALBANY Hugh James Rooney, 75, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the Albany County Nursing Home on Sunday, August 22, 2004. Born in Ireland, he was the son of the late James and Katherine Rooney. Mr. Rooney lived in Bronx, N.Y. until age 9 when he moved to Albany with his family. He had worked many jobs in his life. Jim worked for General Electric West Albany Shop, he was a fireman with Engine 11 and also worked for the Albany Medical Center. Mr. Rooney is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Shirley Rooney of Albany; his four children, James Rooney and wife Joanne, John Rooney, Patrick Rooney, and Michele Reynolds and husband Randy. He is also survived by granddaughters, Guinevere Cramer and husband Matt, Devin Rooney, Samantha Reynolds and Miranda Reynolds and a grandson, Brandon Reynolds. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, August 25, 2004 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at New Comer-Cannon Family Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie (Rt. 155-south of Central Ave.). Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942, in memory of Hugh James Rooney. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Spickerman Jr., Richard CHATHAM Richard Spickerman Jr., 44, of Chatham, joined his parents in the peace of God's love Saturday, August 21, 2004 at the Laurel Lake Nursing Home in Lee, Mass. following a lengthy illness. Mr. Spickerman born September 5, 1959 in Albany, is the son of the late Richard and Mary (Barkman) Spickerman Sr. After he graduated from Maple High School in Castleton, N.Y., he went to follow in his father's footsteps and became a truck driver. A lover of life, he was a guitarist and old car enthusiast. He enjoyed rebuilding old cars with his Dad. He is survived by a sister, Beverly and companion Jeff of Watervliet, N.Y.; a nephew, Don of Clearwater, Fla.; life long best friends, Dale VandeWal and Nadine Brookings as well as many cousins. Graveside services will be held Sunday, August 29, 2004, 12 p.m. from the Margaretville Cemetery, Margaretville, N.Y. with Reverend Dave Spickerman officiating and following with a gathering at the home of Paul Spickerman, Main Street, Margaretville, N.Y. Arrangements are with Wenk Funeral Home, Chatham, N.Y. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Sylvia, Loretta (Memoriam) SYLVIA In loving memory of Loretta who passed away 25 years ago today. You are always in our thoughts and prayers. Lois, Dawn, Meredith and Christine Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Turpin, Beverly Jean GLOVERSVILLE Beverly Jean Turpin, age 66, of Gloversville, died Sunday, August 22, 2004 at St. Mary's Hospital, Amsterdam, after an illness. Born August 22, 1938, the daughter of Leslie and Millicent Hopkins Vosburgh. She graduated from Gloversville High School in 1955, later received her beautician degree in 1956. Mrs. Turpin owned and operated BJ's Beauty Salon, 26 North Main St., Gloversville for 34 years. She was a member of AARP, 55 plus Senior Citizen Group and YWCA, both of Gloversville. She is predeceased by her husband, Richard Earl Turpin, who died in 1975. They were married on November 14, 1963. Survivors include one daughter, Eugenee Turpin of Albany; one brother, Francis and his wife Karole Vosburgh of Gloversville; three nephews, Brian, Kevin and Jeff Vosburgh. The family will receive friends on Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Hollenbeck Funeral Home, 4 Second Avenue, Gloversville. A memorial service will be held directly at noon with Rev. R.W. Williams officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to Albany Medical Cancer Research Center. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Underwood, Robert W. SARATOGA SPRINGS Robert W. Bob Underwood, age 88, of Quevic Drive and formerly of Schenectady, died Sunday evening, August 22, 2004, following a long illness. Born on March 12, 1916 in Schenectady, he was the son of the late Theodore C. and Grace L. (Weldon) Underwood. He was a graduate of Nott Terrace High School in Schenectady. Bob served in the United States Navy during World War II as a signalman first class, where he earned the Asiatic Pacific, American Theatre and World War II Victory Medals, prior to his honorable discharge. He married Grace B. Burns on January 1935 in Waterford. Bob was employed as an account executive for Traveler's Insurance in Albany for 42 years. Bob was an avid bird watcher and a charter member of the Audubon Society. He was a member of the Schenectady American Legion Post #1485 and a Troop Leader of the Boy Scouts of America in Schenectady. An accomplished artist, he enjoyed painting with watercolors and oils. He played the guitar with the Helderberg Hillbillies and also enjoyed camping and fishing. Survivors include his wife of 69 years, Grace B. Underwood of Saratoga Springs; three daughters, Joan U. Sheedy of Portland, Maine, Sharen D. Underwood of Middletown Springs, Vt., Lois K. Mann and her husband, Ralph of Saratoga Springs; one son, Ted E. Underwood of Averill Park; eight grandchildren, Kevin Sheedy, Daniel Sheedy, Brant Underwood, Gwenn Underwood, James Mann, William Mann, Brett Mann, Tyler Mann; 12 great-grandchildren, Sheila Sheedy, Nathaniel Sheedy, Jennifer Sheedy, Nichole Sheedy, Brian Sheedy, Kallyn Sheedy, Taylor Sheedy, James Mann, II, Anthony Mann, Steven Mann, Nicholas Mann and Joseph Mann. He was preceded in death by one grandson, Joseph Mann. Funeral services will be conducted 12 noon Thursday at the Brewer Funeral Home, Inc., 24 Church Street, Lake Luzerne with Rev. Myron Ducharme, pastor of the First United Methodist Church of Lake Luzerne, officiating. Burial with full military honors will be in Luzerne Cemetery, Lake Luzerne. Friends may call Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at the funeral home. The family suggests that contributions, in Bob's memory, be directed to High Peaks Warren County Hopsice, 286 Glen Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801 or to the Alzheimer's Association, 71 Glenwood Avenue, Queensbury, NY 12804. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. van Beusichem, Robert J. CASTLETON Robert J. van Beusichem, 61, passed away at Community Hospice in St. Peter's Hospital on Friday, August 20, 2004 after battling pancreatic cancer. A native and lifelong resident of Castleton, he was born May 3, 1943, the son of the late Adolph and Helen (Heeder) van Beusichem. Most recently, he was employed by the Schodack Central School District, where as a school bus driver he went beyond driving to really caring for his special needs passengers. A musician at heart, Bob was an original member of the Bavarian Barons. He worked for several years as director of the Maple Hill High School Jazz Ensemble. He also played with other Capital District groups including the Joey Thomas Big Band, the Diane Marlowe Big Band of the Northeast and the SwingDocs. Survivors include children, Marijo and Gert-Jan Doedee, Kristina van Beusichem, Andrea and Bill Stewart and Bobbijo van Beusichem; grandchildren, Janneke and Sabine Doedee and Jane and Paul Stewart; sister, Jean Jacobie; brother, Marc van Beusichem; and close friend, Susan O'Connor. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, August 25, 2004 at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 70 Green Ave., Castleton, N.Y. Friends may call at the church prior to the service after 1:30 p.m. Inurnment, Mountain View Cemetery, Castleton, immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Robert J. van Beusichem Memorial Music Award, Schodack Central Schools, Castleton, NY 12033 or to Community Hospice, St. Peter's Hospital, 315 S. Manning Blvd., Albany, NY 12208. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/24/2004 - 8/25/2004. Wood, Russell W. MALTA Russell W. Wood, 76, of Raymond Drive, died Sunday evening, August 22, 2004 at Saratoga Hospital, after a long illness. Born in Worcester, Mass., April 3, 1928, he was the son of the late William and Jennie Wood. Mr. Wood was a 1948 graduate of Worcester Polytechnic Institute, as a chemical engineer. Mr. Wood was a commissioned first lieutenant with the U.S. Army Reserve for several years. Employment began with G.E. of Pittsfield, then to Kiley and Mueller of Middletown, N.Y. and finally for many years with G.E.'s Machinery Applications Operations (MAO) of Schenectady, in the nuclear submarine program, and had personally met and discussed the nuclear program with the late Admiral Rickover, father of the U.S. Navy nuclear programs. An avid N.Y. Yankee, N.Y. Giants football and Boston Celtic fan, Mr. Wood also enjoyed traveling. He was predeceased by his first wife, Margaret Graves Wood, who died September 3, 1983 and a sister, Barbara Nicosia. Survivors include his wife of 20 years, Diane Gruby Wood; his beloved children, Randolph (Barbara) Wood of Scotia, Sandee (Bob) Wyman of Ballston Lake, Richard (Julia) Wood of Perth and Ronald (Deborah) Wood of Glenville; stepchildren, Wesley Tulloch of Troy and Rebecca Horn of Waterford; 15 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family, with no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made to either the American Lung Association or Saratoga Hospital Nursing Home. Arrangements by the Devito-Salvadore Funeral Home, Mechanicville. Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Yaiser, Edward A. TROY Edward A. Yaiser, 83, of Van Rensselaer Manor, died Monday, August 23, 2004, after a long illness. Born in Cohoes, he was a former resident of Perry Road in Speigletown. He lived in Troy and Lansingburgh most of his life and attended Lansingburgh High School. He was the son of the late George Yaiser and Josephine Mayo Yaiser and husband of Marion LaDieu Yaiser of Troy. Mr. Yaiser was an U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, serving from 1941 to 1945. Ed was a machinist for the Freihofer Baking Company for 22 years in Troy and Albany. He was a member and former Elder in the Brunswick Presbyterian Church. He enjoyed photography, fishing and reading. Survivors in addition to his wife Marion, include three daughters, Donna Owens (John) of Menands, Cheryl Burns (John) of Clearwater, Fla. and Susan Vandenburgh (Donald) of Johnsonville; two sons, Edward A. Yaiser (Judy) of Melrose and David G. Yaiser (Virginia) of Speigletown; a sister, Blanche Rotelli (John) of Troy; 14 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his sisters, Marie Britt, Ruth Kirkner and Doris Wagar. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday at the Brunswick Presbyterian Church, 42 White Church Lane, Brunswick. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Troy. A calling hour will be held 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday in the church prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Deacon's Fund or the Building Fund at the Brunswick Church, 42 White Church Lane, Troy, NY 12180. For guest book please visit www.mcloughlinmason.com Published in the Albany Times Union on 8/24/2004. Zabinski, Florence J. ALBANY Florence J. Smolinski Zabinski, age 79, entered into eternal life Monday, August 23, 2004, peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, after a long battle with cancer. Born in Albany, she was a lifelong resident. Florence was a graduate of St. Joseph Academy and the Albany Business College. She was a communicant of St. Casimir's Church and a member of its Rosary Society. She also was a member of Capital District African Violet Society, the Watervliet Arsenal Golf Association and the Cordial Greens Women's Golf League. She was an accomplished seamstress and an avid gardener. Daughter of the late John and Apolonia Saczawa Smolinski. Beloved wife of 55 years of Joseph Zabinski; loving mother of Richard Zabinski, Michael Zabinski and his wife Patricia and Raymond Zabinski and his wife Linda; sister of Alexander Smolinski, Frances Smolinski, Gladys Zmijewski, Veronica Fisher, Theresa Karandy, and the late Suzane Quinn and Casimir Smolinski; cherished grandmother of Joseph, Kevin, Stephanie, Mary Catherine and Peter Zabinski. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held in the Lasak & Gigliotti Funeral Home, 8 Dudley Heights, Albany (opposite the Philip Livingston School on Northern Blvd.) Thursday morning at 8:30 and 9 o'clock at the Church of St. Casimir. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend and may also call at the funeral home Wednesday 4 to 8 p.m. Interment will be in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Colonie. Published in the Albany Times Union from 8/24/2004 - 8/25/2004.