OBITS: Albany Times Union 26 Jul 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 Alexander, Barbara (Memoriam) ALEXANDER Barbara 7/26/66-5/27/02 In loving memory of our Dear Loved One. Many things have changed, since you have gone away, but has not faded our memories of you. We love and miss you. Happy Birthday Barbara Ann. Love Your Family Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Becker II, Glenn A. GUILDERLAND Glenn A. Becker, II, 31, of Guilderland, died unexpectedly on Saturday, July 24, 2004. He was born in Niskayuna and was a 1992 graduate of Guilderland High School. Glenn was a loving and dedicated father to his cherished daughter, Brittany DeAnna Becker; adored son of Robin and Timothy Bliss and Glenn and Dawn Becker; devoted brother of Amy Becker; grandson of Al Pachter and the late Beryl Pachter, Harold Becker and the late Virginia Becker, Mrs. Shirley Bliss and Janis Pokeda; also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. Glenn was a friend to many and touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He will missed by all who knew and loved him. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at New Comer-Cannon Family Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, (Rt. 155-South of Central Avenue). Funeral services will be Tuesday evening at 7 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made, in Glenn's name, to National Alliance for Mentally Ill, c/o Ron Honberg, J.D., Colonial Place Three, 2107 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22201-3042. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/26/2004 - 7/27/2004. Butch, Thomas E. EAST GREENBUSH Thomas E. Butch, 46, of Timber Ledge, East Greenbush, died Thursday, July 22, 2004 at Westchester Medical Center, due to injuries sustained in a vehicle accident on July 16. A lifelong area resident, Mr. Butch was born in Schenectady, he was the son of Patricia Carey Butch and the late Edward C. Butch. He was a graduate of Schenectady public schools, SUNY Cobleskill and SUNY Albany with a degree in accounting. He was an associate accountant for the NYS Dept. of Mental Health. He was an avid sports enthusiast and enjoyed many memorable trips. He was a special fun loving person who will be sadly missed by all who knew him and loved him. Survivors are, his mother, Patricia Carey Butch of Schenectady; his beloved companion, Patricia Madia and her daughter, Maggie; two sisters, Cynthia Bentley of Niskayuna and Marcia Setaro and her husband Robert of Poughkeepsie; nieces and nephew, Andria Bentley, Brian and Amanda Setaro. Also survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins; his buddy, Vincent the cat and a very close knit group of early childhood friends who are truly his brothers. Services, Monday morning 8:15 from the Daly Funeral Home, 242 McClellan St. and 9:00 at St. Paul the Apostle Church, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Calling Sunday 5-8 p.m. Entombment, Most Holy Redeemer Mausoleum, Niskayuna. Contributions may be made to Westchester Medical Center Burn Unit, Grasslands Rd., Valhalla, NY 10595. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/24/2004 - 7/26/2004. Cole, Esther M. (Scholan) EAST GREENBUSH Esther M. (Scholan) Cole 78, lost her battle against ALS Saturday July 24, 2004 at Community Hospice of Albany at St Peter's Hospital after a lengthy illness. Born in Latham she had been a resident of the Capital Region all of her life and was a nurse with Albany Memorial Hospital for 25 years prior to retiring in 1985. Predeceased by her parents, George and Lillian (Halpin) Scholan; her husband, Donald G. Cole; a sister, Elizabeth Lamb; and a brother, Louis Scholan. Esther is survived by two daughters, Darlene G. (Robert) Wood of East Greenbush, Esther M. Farrell of Troy; her sisters, Margaret Snow of Troy, and Connie Parvana of Latham. Also survived by six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Loving thanks to Barbara and Tamika of ALS Center and Pam, Rosemary, Pacia and Kristin from St. Peter's Palliative Care. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, Tuesday, 11:00 a.m. at Church of St. Mary's Clinton Heights. Interment will be in New Rural Cemetery, East Greenbush, N.Y. The family has requested that those who wish to remember Esther make contributions to the St. Peter's ALS Regional Center, 315 S. Manning Blvd. Albany, NY 12208 or Bruen Rescue Squad, 1116 Red Mill Road, Rensselaer, NY 12144 in her memory. Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Cordi Jr., Frank (Memoriam) CORDI Frank Jr. Dad, It broke our hearts to lose you, But you did not go alone, For a part of us went with you, The day God called you home. In life we loved you dearly, In death we love you still. Your Children, Betty Jane, Sue, Fran, Frank lll, Jim and John Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Cordi Jr., Frank (Memoriam) CORDI Frank Jr. They say time heals everything, But you never leave my thoughts. Everyday something reminds me of you. I cry when I have to and laugh when I can, for this is a journey we all must take and each must go alone. I miss our special love we had over the years. Always in my heart. Betty Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Desormeaux, George A. N. CONWAY, N.H. George A. Desormeaux, 67, of Socha Lane, died at Memorial Hospital in N. Conway while on vacation with family. George retired from G.E. following 31 years of service in 1996 when he learned of his cancer. Born in Fall River, Mass. on February 3, 1937, he was the son of the late George A. Desormeaux Sr. and Lillian Poudrier Desormeaux. George received his undergraduate from Providence College and subsequent MBA from Boston College in 1964. Mr. Desormeaux was a veteran of the United States Army where he served with the 1018th Engineering Battalion. He was in the Army Reserves another 24 years, leaving Reserves as captain. He was married on July 4, 1957 to the former Catherine A. Lacourse and moved to Schenectady when he began work for G.E. as senior buyer in components. He worked tirelessly for the board of directors on various United Way projects and was voted one of the outstanding citizens for his campaign work. He served as adjunct professor for the College of St. Rose as an adult education instructor for G.E. He retired in 1996. Mr. Desormeaux enjoyed several hobbies including model trains, coin, stamp collecting and traveling. George has traveled to many locations in America, Africa, Eurasia and the Far East. He was a member of the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the Quarter Century Club. Survivors include his wife, Catherine A. Desormeaux; three sons, David A. and his wife, Cyndi of Ft. Collins, Colo., Michael A. Desormeaux of Charlton and Neil L. Desormeaux and his wife, Krista of Tuxedo, N.Y. He leaves behind nine cherished grandchildren, Kristen, Alyssa and Eric, Michael-John, Noelle, Danelle and Katelyn; Brooke and Drew Desormeaux; and a beloved sister, Judith A. Plouffe and her husband, Gerard of Mansfield, Mass. Funeral services will be held Wednesday 9:15 a.m. from the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Rd., East Glenville, thence to the Church of the Immaculate Conception, 400 Saratoga Rd. where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Calling hours will be on Tuesday 6 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be with full honors at the Gerald B.H. Solomon National Cemetery in Schuylerville. Memorial contributions may be made in George's name to Community Hospice of Schenectady, 1411 Union St., Schenectady, NY 12308. Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Eson, Joy P. ALBANY Joy P. Eson, age 83, of Pinetree Lane in Albany died Saturday evening, July 24, 2004 at the Hospice Inn at St. Peter's Hospital in Albany. She was a graduate of the John Marshall High School and was active in theatre program. After graduation, she attended the University of Chicago for 3 years. She married Morris Eson in 1943 and spent time in Panama and Virginia accompanying her husband during his service in the Army. She moved to Albany in 1951 when her husband joined the facility of New York State College for Teachers (SUNY Albany). She was a lifelong artist, mostly self-taught but attended occasional workshops and read extensively. She taught painting to friends and taught in the Massry Senior Residence. She taught and encouraged all her grandchildren to paint and love art. She enjoyed every opportunity to travel and visit museums and galleries. There will be an exhibit of her artwork at Bethlehem Public Library from August 2 - August 31. Mrs Eson accompanied her husband during sabbatical years for several extended stays in Israel. She and her family have been affiliated with Congregation Ohav Shalom and Temple Israel in Albany. She is survived by her husband Morris of Albany; her children, Charles (Karen) of Altamont, N.Y., Elizabeth Vigoda (David) of Delmar, N.Y., Marc (Rhonda) of Atlanta, Georgia and Jud (Nancy) of Delmar, N.Y.; grandmother of Benjamin, Rachel, Lena, Sarah and Lauren. Services at the Levine Memorial Chapel, 649 Washington Avenue, Albany, N.Y. on Tuesday July 27, 2004 at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow services in the Temple Israel Cemetery in Guilderland, N.Y. The Period of Mourning will be observed commencing Tuesday at the Eson Residence, 29 Pinetree Lane in Albany with a minyan service each evening at 7:30 p.m with the exception of Friday and Saturday evenings Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice Inn at St. Peter's Hospital, 315 South Manning Blvd., Albany, New York 12208 or a charity of ones choice. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/26/2004 - 7/27/2004. Feldstein, Bernie (Memoriam) FELDSTEIN Six years ago today, our very lives were shattered. We lost our sweet Pop Bernie. He, to us, most mattered. No amount of words can express our depth of sorrow. We loved him then, we love him now, we will love him tomorrow. The Family Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Hayes, John Thomas TROY John Thomas Hayes, newborn son of John J. and Stacia L. Smith Hayes, died Thursday, July 22, 2004 at Samaritan Hospital, Troy. Survivors in addition to his parents, include his paternal grandparents, John T. Hayes of Clifton Park and Jean F. Hayes of Wynantskill; his maternal grandmother, Marlene Smith of Brunswick; and his paternal great-grandmother, Marie G. Hayes of Wynantskill. He is predeceased by his maternal grandfather, George L. Smith. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles and cousins. The funeral service will be private from the Thomas S. Connolly Funeral Home, 294 Whiteview Rd., Wynantskill with Rev. Thomas J. Hayes, pastor of St. Mary's Church, Crescent, officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Wynantskill. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/25/2004 - 7/26/2004. Heath, William A. SCHENECTADY William A. Whitey Heath, 70, of Fillmore Avenue, died peacefully on Sunday, July 25, 2004 following a long illness. He was born in Catskill on March 25, 1934 and was the son of the late Donald and Mildred (Brown) Heath. Mr. Heath was married to Nancy A. Lewis on October 8, 1960. Shortly after their wedding, he settled in Schenectady with his wife. He was a retired truck driver. He was a long time communicant of St. Paul the Apostle and was a member of their Men's Club. He enjoyed bowling and other sporting activities but was passionate about the extensive traveling he was able to do with his wife. He was the devoted husband of 44 years to Nancy A. Heath; the beloved father of Michael A. Heath and his long time girlfriend, Sandra Alex Lech of Colonie and Linda M. Mitchell-Zerella of Amsterdam; as well as the cherished grandfather of Angela, Andrew and Rachel Mitchell of Amsterdam. Other survivors include his sister, Constance Iten of Catskill; a brother-in-law, David M. Lewis and his wife, Carol of Griswold, Conn.; several nieces, nephews also survive him. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Richard Heath. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday at 10:15 a.m. at the Griswold Funeral Home, 1867 State Street, Schenectady and at 11 a.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Church, where the Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. The family will receive visitors on Monday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will take place at St. Joseph's Cemetery, Schenectady. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2777 Albany Street, Schenectady, NY 12304. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/26/2004 - 7/27/2004. Hilton, Betty Jane Busher (Memoriam) HILTON Betty Jane Busher July 26, 1995 Greetings As long as the stars and moon shall meet Aloft in the heavenly blue, Like them, we'll be friends, And always greet A staunch and friendly crew! (May San Giovanni) Albert W. Eisenhauer Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Hoffman, William H. ALBANY William (Bill) Howard Hoffman, age 66, entered into eternal life Sunday, July 25, 2004. Born in Albany, he was a lifelong resident. He had been employed for more than 40 years by Sterling Organics in Rensselaer. He had served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1961. He was a member of the Watervliet Lodge Elks #1500 and a communicant of the Church of the Holy Cross. An avid hunter and fisherman, he always made time for everyone. Son of the late Earl and Marian Smith Hoffman. Beloved husband of Ellen Ruth Trapp Hoffman; loving father of Mary Ellen Cranney of Niskayuna; brother of Earl, Frederick, Raymond and Walter Hoffman, Marian Novak and the late David Hoffman; also survived by several nieces, nephews and his pet dog, Oreo Cookie. Funeral services will be held in the Lasak & Gigliotti Funeral Home, 8 Dudley Heights, Albany (opposite the Philip Livingston School on Northern Blvd) Wednesday morning at 8:45 and 9:30 o'clock at the Church of the Holy Cross. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend and may also call at the funeral home Tuesday 4 to 8 p.m. Interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands. Those desiring may send a remembrance in Bill's name to the Mohawk and Hudson River Humane Society, Oakland Avenue, Menands, NY 12204. Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Jones, Irving J. TROY Irving J. Jones, 84, died peacefully Saturday, July 24, 2004 at his home in Brunswick surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Troy, Irving was the son of the late Reginald J. Jones and Josephine Doherty Jones and beloved husband of Marjorie A. Murray Jones of Brunswick for 57 years. Mr. Jones was a graduate of Catholic Central High School, class of 1938. After graduation, he attended Roosevelt Aviation School on Long Island and became an aircraft mechanic with Trans World Airways at LaGuardia Field. He enlisted in the U. S. Army Air Force during World War II and served in the Pacific Theatre as a B-29 bomber pilot in the 20th Air Force, 58th Bomb Wing, flying combat missions from Tinian. After military service, he worked as an aircraft mechanic at the former Troy Airport on Campbell Avenue. Later, he was a manufacturing process engineer with the Ford Motor Co. in Green Island for 26 years, retiring in 1982. He was a member of the 20th Air Force Association; Experimental Aircraft Association; Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and the Quiet Birdmen. He was a communicant of Our Lady of Victory Church. Survivors, in addition to his wife, Marjorie, include two sons, Richard M. Jones (Judith) of Granby, Conn., Ronald J. Jones (Debra) of Latham and a daughter, Kathryn A. Messemer (Randy) of Brunswick; six grandchildren, Meaghan and Tyler Hickey of Brunswick, Courtney and Nicholas Jones of Latham and Katherine and Cynthia Jones of Granby, Conn.; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be at 10:15 a.m. Tuesday from the McLoughlin & Mason Funeral Home, 109th St. and Third Avenue, Lansingburgh and at 11:00 a.m. in Our Lady of Victory Church, Troy where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Pastor, Rev. Randall Patterson. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Troy. Calling hours are 4-8 p.m. Monday in the funeral home. Memorial contributions to Our Lady of Victory Church, 55 North Lake Avenue, Troy, NY 12180 would be appreciated. For directions and guest book, please visit: www.mcloughlinmason.com Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/25/2004 - 7/26/2004. Kittell, Lillian ALBANY Lillian Kittell entered into eternal rest on July 23, 2004 at Villa Mary Nursing Home. She is survived by her husband, Luther J. Kittell; two children, Barbara A. Foy of Albany and Larry S. Kittell of Menands. Also survived by eight grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. Four siblings have predeceased her. Funeral service Tuesday, 12:00 noon, Walls Temple A.M.E. Zion Church, 27 Delaware Street. Calling hours 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the church prior to the service. Interment, Evergreen Memorial Park. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/25/2004 - 7/26/2004. Manti, Claire T. VALATIE Claire T. Manti, 78, a resident of Barnwell Health Facilities, died Saturday July 24, 2004 at Albany Memorial Hospital. Born in Albany, N.Y., July 20, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Ellsworth and Catherine (Stickles) McCoon. Claire worked for the Office of the Aging as a senior companion and was a member of several organizations including the Kinderhook Lake Improvement Assoc., Tri-Village Senior Citizens, St. John the Baptist Church and St. John's Elves She was the beloved mother of Cheryl Sico, Middle Island, N.Y.; beloved sister of Mrs. Paul (Twinkie) Uhl, Colonie, N.Y. and Duane McCoon of Turmbell, Conn.; beloved grandmother of Allison and Alex Sico. She was predeceased by her son, James Manti; a sister, Audrey Gardinier and two brothers, Donald and Gerald McCoon. A memorial mass at St. John the Baptist Church in Valatie will be held at a later date. There will be no calling hours In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be sent to Green Manor Dialysis Center, Green Manor Dr., Ghent NY 12075. Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Maxwell Sr., Alfred C. CASTLETON Alfred C. (Pops) Maxwell Sr., 81, of Phillips Rd., died July 24, 2004 at St. Peter's Hospital after a long illness. Born in Albany, he has been a Capital District resident all of his life. An Army veteran of World War II, Mr. Maxwell was in housekeeping management at the Stratton V.A. Medical Center for 30 years, retiring in 1983, and earlier had been a member of the Albany Painters Union. He was an avid hunter with his pal, Earl Langenbach. Husband of the late Elizabeth A. Capasso Maxwell, he was the beloved father of Mrs. David (Claudia) Brown; Alfred C. (Christine) Maxwell Jr., both of Castleton; Michael T. (Janine) of Delmar; Mark L. (Christine) of Nassau and Peter W. (friend, Sue Dornan) Maxwell of E. Greenbush; brother of Emily Dietz and the late William Maxwell and Alva Slauson. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, one of whom (Shawn) is serving in the Army in Iraq; and three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Thursday morning at 10:30 at the Rockefeller Funeral Home, 165 Columbia Tpk., Rensselaer. Friends may call Wednesday 4-8 p.m. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/25/2004 - 7/28/2004. Mazzone, Filomena (Memoriam) MAZZONE (MASON) In loving memory of our mother, Filomena, who passed away July 26, 1990. It's lonesome here without you And sad in every way Life is not the same for us Since God took you away They say memories are golden And that may be true We never wanted memories We always wanted you Love, Peggy and Ginny Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Nial, Marie F. CLIFTON PARK Marie F. Nial, 95, formerly of Hoffman Drive, Latham, died July 24, 2004 at Schuyler Ridge Nursing Home in Clifton Park. Marie was the wife of the late Joseph B. Nial, Jr., to whom she was married for 65 years, and the daughter of the late Mamie Mullaly Hynes and the late Peter Hynes. Marie was born in Green Island, N.Y., grew up in Lansingburgh and attended Lansingburgh High School where she met her husband Joe. Together, they established a carpet cleaning business that was later expanded into a sales and service operation known as Careful Carpet World, Inc. She retired as vice-president. Upon her retirement Marie was active in the Colonie Senior Citizens and served as president for a number of years. She was also a member of the Women's Auxiliary of the Colonie Elks. Marie is survived by a daughter, Patricia M. Collopy of Averill Park and by a son, Joseph B. Nial, III, of Malta, N.Y. She is also survived by five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Marie was predeceased by her sister, Mrs. James (Katherine) Hoffman of Troy. Marie was a dedicated business woman, a devoted mother and a loving wife. She enjoyed parties with her family and loved to entertain at senior citizen functions. She also enjoyed traveling. She played poker and bridge and was a good fishing partner. She always dressed elegantly. Marie was a lady of many talents who will be missed. In recent years she was a communicant of Our Lady of Assumption Church in Latham and previously of St. Augustine's in Lansingburgh. Friends may call at the John Sanvidge Funeral Home, Inc. (corner of 115th Street and Fourth Avenue), Lansingburgh on Wednesday morning, July 28 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at St. Augustine Church at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be in St. Peter's Cemetery, Troy. Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. O'Meara, Helen L. TROY Helen L. O'Meara, of Troy Towers Apts., died Friday, July 23, 2004 at Samaritan Hospital surrounded by her loving family. Born in Troy and a resident there all her life, she was the daughter of the late James and Elizabeth Gorman McGrath and widow of Michael W. O'Meara. Mrs. O'Meara was a homemaker all of her life and was employed at one time as a cashier at the Mohican Market in Troy and was a lifelong member of St. Peter's Parish. Survivors include a son, Michael (Jean) O'Meara of Speigletown; two grandchildren, Kimberly O'Meara Zimmer of Saratoga Springs, N.Y. and Michael T. O'Meara of Tacoma, Wash. She was the sister of the late Edward, James, John McGrath and Elizabeth Falk. She was also survived by nieces and nephews. Funeral from the Riverview Funeral Home, 218 Second Ave. (at 104th St.) Troy, Tuesday 9 a.m. and at 9:30 a.m. from St. Paul the Apostle Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. William A. Gorman. Interment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call Monday 4-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Contributions to Community Hospice of Rens. Co., 295 Valley View Rd., Rensselaer, NY 12144 or St. Bonaventure Church Building Fund, Hillview Dr., Troy, NY 12182 would be appreciated. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/25/2004 - 7/26/2004. Shanno, Paul Ryan (Memoriam) SHANNO Paul Ryan You are not forgotten, You will live in our hearts and minds forever. You are an angel. Happy 11th Birthday. Love Always, Mom, Grandma and Uncle Pat. Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Shapiro, A. Albert ROTTERDAM A. Albert Shapiro, 86, of Rotterdam, N.Y. died peacefully on July 24, 2004 at Northwoods Rehabilitation Facility in Niskayuna after a short illness. Mr. Shapiro was born on July 23, 1918 and was the son of the late Louis and Minnie Shapiro. He graduated from Mont Pleasant High School in Schenectady in 1936. He graduated from the University of Rochester in 1940 with a degree in economics and history and attended Harvard Law School for two years before joining the Navy in 1941 where he served on the U.S.S. San Juan during World War II. He returned to Harvard Law School in 1945, and earned his law degree in 1947. While at Harvard, Mr. Shapiro was one of four people who was chosen to prepare a treatise involving diplomatic law. At the completion of the four-month project, the document was handed over to a U.S. ambassador to the as yet-unannounced United Nations. Unbeknownst to the group, the document that they had created went into the charter for the United Nations, which was announced two months later. Mr. Shapiro took great pride in the fact that to this day, not one word of what they wrote has ever been changed. Following his graduation from Harvard Law, Mr. Shapiro took over his father's business, Economy Electric Supply Company, which he owned for nearly 30 years. In 1977, he was named commissioner of finance for Schenectady County, a position he held until his retirement in 1988. He continued to consult for the county for a number of years after his retirement. Mr Shapiro regarded that position and the people with whom he served, especially Bob McEvoy and George Davidson, as the pinnacle of his career, maintaining that in enabled him to serve the county using the wealth of experience and knowledge he had gained over the course of his lifetime. Mr Shapiro was a man whose high morals, integrity and courage formed the basis of his dealings with everyone with whom he came in contact. Throughout his life, he also went beyond the call of duty; anonymously providing scholarship aid to college bound students and providing counsel to those who sought his assistance. He was a pioneer in championing women's rights and promoting equality among people of different religions, races and cultures. His dedication to education was lifelong and exemplified by his infinite thirst for knowledge, both personally and in service to others. Mr. Shapiro is survived by his wife of 55 years, Sandra Lee Fichtner Shapiro; six children, Marcy Elizabeth Shapiro of Saugerties, N.Y., Ricki Shapiro of Niskayuna, N.Y., Jody Gandy of Waldorf, Md., Cindy Shapiro of Philadelphia, Pa.; Neal Shapiro of Scotia; N.Y. and Eric (Beth) Shapiro of San Antonio, Texas; his brother, Edward (Min) Shapiro of Florida and Galway, N.Y.; four grandchildren, Weston and Connor Shapiro of Scotia; and Ariella and Daniel Shapiro of San Antonio; several nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 26, at Congregation Agudat Achim, 2117 Union Street. Burial will be in Congregation Agudat Achim Cemetery on Schermerhorn Street in Rotterdam. A Period of Mourning will be observed at the home of Neal Shapiro. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Advanced Neuroimaging Research Center at Albany Medical Center, 47 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY 12208 or Congregation Agudat Achim or the Schenectady County Public Library, 99 Clinton Street, Schenectady, NY 12305-2083. The family wishes to thank the staff at Northwoods and Ellis Hospital for their care, concern and loving attention during Mr. Shapiro's illness. Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Shoddy, Vincenza BALLSTON SPA Vincenza E. Shoddy, 79, died Thursday, July 22, 2004 at the Saratoga Hospital. Born in New York City on Mott Street, she was the daughter of the late Antonio and Dianna Polizzi. She was predeceased by her husband in January of 1993, Richard K. Shoddy. She was the dear mother of Barbara A. Padula Schewe of Ballston Spa; loving grandmother of Mark T. Schewe and Beth A. Nesbitt; dear great-grandmother of David, Jonathan, Carly, Emma and Lila; sister of the late Josephine Marro, Antonio and Rosie Polizzi; several nieces and nephews also survive. Relatives and friends are invited to a service Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. at the Schenectady Memorial Park Mausoleum. Contributions can be made to the Alzheimer's Association-NENY Chapter, 85 Watervliet Ave., Albany, N.Y. 12206. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/25/2004 - 7/26/2004. Smith, Virginia COLONIE Virginia Connolly Smith, age 82, of McNutt Ave., died Friday, July 23, 2004 at the Albany County Nursing Home. Born in Albany, Virginia had lived on McNutt Ave. since 1961. She was employed for 15 years at the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles in Albany, retiring in 1981. Virginia was a member of the Hart Seniors in Colonie, a communicant of the Church of Our Lady of Mercy in Colonie and a member of the church rosary society. She was the loving wife of Boyd K. Smith; devoted mother of Bonnie (James) Beach of Colonie, Kenneth P. Smith of East Greenbush and Patrice (James) Salisbury of East Greenbush; cherished grandmother of Kimberly, Jennifer, Danielle, Traci and Jeffrey; and sister of Mary Cummings of East Greenbush. Funeral 9:00 o'clock Tuesday morning from the Reilly & Son Funeral Home, Colonie and at 9:30 at the Church of Our Lady of Mercy, 26 Wilson Ave., Colonie. Burial will be in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery in Colonie. Calling hours will be Monday from 4-8 p.m. in the funeral home. Virginia's family would like to thank the staff, nurses and other residents of unit A at the Albany County Nursing Home for the wonderful care and companionship that was provided to her. Those who wish may send a contribution in memory of Virginia to the Albany County Nursing Home, Unit A , Albany-Shaker Rd., Albany, NY 12205. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/25/2004 - 7/26/2004. Tytko, Mary Elizabeth ROTTERDAM Mary Elizabeth Tytko, 84, wife of the late Dr. Michael J. Tytko, died on Saturday, July 24, 2004. Born in Syracuse and raised in Canastota, New York, she was the daughter of the late William Druce Harris and Mary Ruth Harris. Mrs Tytko was head pediatric nurse at Syracuse Memorial Hospital before her marriage to Dr. Tytko in 1944. After her marriage, she lovingly devoted her time to her family and community. She was the dear mother of Mary Jane Tytko of Rotterdam, N.Y., Cynthia Anne Tytko of Oneida Castle, N.Y., Stephen Michael Tytko of Rotterdam, N.Y.; grandmother of Heather Middlekoop and Justin Tytko and great-grandmother of Mia Cecelia Middlekoop. Involved in the Community, Mrs. Tytko served on the Schalmont School Board and was a past president of the West Hill Association. She anually sponsored an acedemic award for achievement at Schalmont High School. An avid reader, Mrs Tytko loved discussing current events and politics. She enjoyed travel, especially to England and made numerous long-term friendships with people over-seas. Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon, July 28, at 1 p.m. at Bond Funeral Home, Broadway & Guilderland Ave, Schenectady. Family and friends may call at the funeral home from noon to 1 p.m. prior to the funeral service. Interment will follow the service at St. Adalbert's Cemetery. Those wishing to remember Mrs. Tytko and her family in a special way may send contributions to the charity of their choice. Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Van Alstyne, Charles R. PITTSFIELD, Mass. Charles R. Van Alstyne, 68, of Pittsfield, Mass., formerly of Colonie, died Saturday morning at Berkshire Medical Center, Pittsfield. Born on July 9, 1936, the son of Sears R. and Mary Una Barnes Van Alstyne, he attended Lenox Public Schools. Mr. Van Alstyne served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1954-57. He was employed for 30 years by the Bay State Elevator Co. as an elevator construction supervisor, working much of that time in the Albany, N.Y. area, retiring in 1995. Mr. Van Alstyne made his home in Colonie, N.Y. from 1971 until coming to Pittsfield in 2001. He was a member of the Colonie Elks Lodge for many years and was a coach for the Colonie Girl's Softball League. Mr Van Alstyne is survived by his wife, the former Eleanor Cox, whom he married in Richlands, North Carolina on April 20, 1956; four daughters, Constance V. LaBarge, Wendy Marie White, Michelle L. Mooney, and Tracey Ann DeMarco; five sisters; three brothers and nine grandchildren. The funeral will be Tuesday morning at 10 a.m. at the Church on the Hill, Main St. in Lenox, Mass. Calling hours are today (Monday) from 4-8 p.m. at the Roche Funeral Home, 120 Main Street, Lenox. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Northewstern University. All donations will be used to support the research of the Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease Center there. Directions, other info at www.rochefuneralhome.com Published in the Albany Times Union on 7/26/2004. Wessell, William P. RENSSELAER William Paul Wessell, 91, of Valley View Apartments, died Thursday, July 22, 2004 at Albany Memorial Hospital. Born, raised and lived his entire life in Rensselaer, he was a pipe fitter for BASF, formerly GAF, in Rensselaer for 43 years prior to his retiring in 1975. He was also vestryman for several years at Church of the Redeemer and a veteran of World War II, having served in the Coast Guard. Predeceased by his parents, William P. and Carrie (Holes) Wessell; a daughter, Susan E. Wessell; and a sister, P. Virginia Wessell. He is survived by his loving wife, Albertine B. (Brown) Wessell; and a daughter, Sandra E. DeChiaro of Waterford; also survived by four grandchildren, David Girolami, Denise Kuhn, Jeffrey Girolami and Patience Franceski; and three great-grandchildren; honorary father of Armand and Nancy Girolami. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service 10:00 a.m. on Thursday at Church of the Redeemer, 1249 3rd St., Rensselaer. There will be no viewing hours. Interment, Greenbush Cemetery, East Greenbush, N.Y. The family has requested that those who wish to remember Paul make contributions to Church of the Redeemer, 1249 3rd St., Rensselaer, NY 12144 in his memory. Published in the Albany Times Union from 7/26/2004 - 7/28/2004.