OBITS: Albany Times Union 29 Sep 2005; 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 Agostino, Maria TROY Maria Caracciolo Agostino, 85, of Troy, passed away on Tuesday, September 27, 2005 at St. Mary's Hospital surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Gioiosa Ionica, Italy and moved to Troy in 1955. She was the daughter of the late Rocco and Elisabetta Caracciolo. After moving to Troy, she and her husband owned and operated Alberto Italian Restaurant for 15 years, and also worked as a seamstress at Rodino's. Maria loved her family and enjoyed the closeness that they shared. She was an avid gardener and cook. She enjoyed bringing her family together for her wonderful weekly meals. Maria was the loving devoted wife of the late Alberto Agostino. She is survived by her children, Teresa Plunkett and her husband Robert, Josephine Adamo and her husband John, Gerard Agostino and his wife Angela; her grandchildren (who called her Naonna) Anne Marie Judge and her husband Dave, Karen Skiba and her husband Michael, Matthew Adamo and his wife Karen, Mark Adamo, Anthony Plunkett and his wife Maggie, Andrea Adamo-Smith and her husband Stephen, Gerard Agostino and Alex Agostino; and her great-grandchildren, Anthony, Arianna and David Judge and Gabrielle and Julia Skiba. Maria was the sister of Giuseppe and Vincenzo Caracciolo of Italy, Rosa Prestia and Clemtina Murdocca, also of Italy. She was predeceased by her brothers, Francesco, Gmanvele, and Gino Caracciolo. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Maria was a devout Catholic and her faith carried her through her long illness. Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 9 a.m. from the Wm. Leahy Funeral Home, 336 3rd St., Troy and at 9:30 a.m. in St. Anthony's Church, Troy where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery. Family and friends are invited and may call on Friday from 4-8 p.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers donations in Maria's memory would be appreciated and may be made to the Community Hospice of Rensselaer County, 295 Valley View Blvd., Rensselaer, NY 12144. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Akullian, Sarkine Vartigian WATERVLIET Sarkine Vartigian Akullian (1920-2005) died September 27. Beloved and devoted mother of Charleen Akullian and the late John Paul Akullian; widow of John Akullian, who died in 1980. A lifelong resident of Watervliet, she was the daughter of the late Alice and Sarkis Vartigian; the sister of Ralph and Ann Vartigian of North Greenbush and the late Paul Vartigian and Lucy V. Kasparian; the aunt of Deborah Erlandson, David Vartigian, Daniel Vartigian and their families. In addition to being a homemaker, she worked outside the home; first, in the dress department of the old Denby's Department Store in Troy and then in the auditing department of the Troy Savings Bank, from which she retired in 1984. Funeral service, to which all are invited, will be held on Friday at 10 a.m. in St. Peter Armenian Apostolic Church, 100 Troy-Schenectady Road, Watervliet. A private interment will be held in the Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands. Family and friends are also invited to call at the Parker Brothers Memorial, 2013 Broadway, Watervliet on Thursday from 6 until 8 p.m., during which time the evening service will be held at 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Peter Armenian Apostolic Church in memory of Sarkine Vartigian Akullian. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/28/2005 - 9/29/2005. Becker, Janet GLENVILLE Janet Becker, 71, passed away September 27, 2005. Friends may call 10-11 a.m. Saturday at Light's Funeral Home, where a service will begin at 11 a.m. Interment will be in Park View Cemetery. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Bessmer, Frank J. WATERVLIET Frank J. Bessmer, 79, died unexpectedly at his home on September 26, 2005. Son of the late Frank and Mary Gazda Bessmer; beloved husband of the late Isabelle Prefore Bessmer. Father of Michelle Ann (Michael) Prestipino of Latham and Kimberly Ann Lampkin of North Greenbush; grandfather of Gregory F. Sedefian, David S. Sedefian, Ashley J. Prestipino and Ryan F. Lampkin; brother of Florence Mary Bessmer of Clifton Park, Robert Bessmer of West Sand Lake and the late Daniel Bessmer. Also several nieces and nephews survive. Funeral from the Parker Bros. Memorial, 2013 Broadway, Watervliet on Friday at 8:30 a.m. and at 9 a.m. in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Watervliet. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery. Calling hours are at the funeral home on Thursday from 4 until 8 p.m. Contributions in his memory may be made to a special fund to be overseen by the Reverend Boleslaus M. Watroba, c/o 2420-7th Avenue, Watervliet, NY 12189. For guest registry and directions, please visit: www.parkerbrosmemorial.com Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Betts, Dr. Richard H. QUEENSBURY Dr. Richard H. Betts, 82, passed away on Monday, September 26, 2005 at Glens Falls Hospital. He was born on July 3, 1923 in LaFargeville, N.Y., the son of the late Henry L. and Madgel (Gailey) Betts. Dr. Betts was a veteran of World War II, serving in the United States Army, active from September of 1945-1950, receiving the Army of Occupation medal and the World War II Victory medal. He then served in the United States Air Force Reserves as a lieutenant colonel from 1950 until retiring in July of 1983. He grew up in Delmar, graduating from Bethlehem Central School after being president of his class. He participated in Boy Scouts and earned Eagle Scout status. He played trumpet in many local orchestras and bands. Dr. Betts attended Alfred University and received his dental degree from the University of Buffalo. He volunteered at Kent Delord House in Plattsburgh, N.Y. and was a member of Siberian Rod & Gun Club in Dannamora, N.Y. He loved hunting and hiking and worked at summer camps for children, taking them on canoe trips throughout the Fulton chain of lakes. Dr. Betts retired from Clinton Correctional Facility on May 2, 1986. He is survived by his wife Shirley (Hurlburt) Betts of Queensbury; his son, John Betts and wife Diana of Plattsburgh; daughter, Susan Elia and her husband Pete of Rochester; four grandsons, Josh and Luke Betts of Plattsburgh and Ryan and Jordon Elia of Rochester; sister, Marilyn Fryer and her husband Rodger of Delmar and sister, Mary Jane Minko of Hampton, N.H. Memorial services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 30, 2005 at the Regan & Denny Funeral Home, 53 Quaker Rd., Queensbury with Flossie Gage-Bates officiating. Burial will follow in the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville. No calling hours are scheduled. Those who wish may send a remembrance in his name to Salvation Army Corps, 13 Chester Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801 or West Glens Falls Emergency Squad, 105 Main Street, Queensbury, NY 12804. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Blair, Patricia (Memoriam) BLAIR Patricia Dear mom, It's been three years since we have seen your beautiful face but you are for always in our hearts. We miss and love you. Dad and Kids Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Boyle, Marie Elaine (Memoriam) BOYLE Marie Elaine Happy 31st! Even tho you're not physically here with me I still say Happy Anniversary, for the over 30 great years together as a team! Tune in tonite cuz you'll be hearing a lot of Toasts from me, Captain, Cathy and all our pals at Joe's. Don't worry I'll call a cab home! Thanx a million for our son Mike Jr! Luv ya tons & loads, The Da AKA: Your Hubby, Best Pal and Partner Mike! Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Charbonneau Sr., Leo Hack COLONIE Leo H. Hack Charbonneau Sr., 70, of Veeder Drive, Colonie, died suddenly Monday, September 26, 2005 at his residence embraced by his loving family after a four-month battle with lung cancer. Born and educated in Cohoes, he was the son of the late Nelson J. and Eva LaCombe Charbonneau and beloved husband of Shirley Berdar Charbonneau of Colonie. Hack resided in Cohoes for most of his life and relocated to Colonie in 1979. He was a veteran of the United States Navy Reserve and a volunteer aboard the Navy ship, USS Slater, moored in the port of Albany. Hack was a member of CAP DESA and was employed with the NYS Department of Transportation where he was the supervisor of drilling operations, retiring in 1990. He was a communicant of St. Paul the Apostle Church in Schenectady. He enjoyed motorcycling, hunting, fishing and woodworking. Besides his wife Shirley, he is survived by his loving sons, Daniel R. Charbonneau of Beloit, Wis., Leo H. Charbonneau Jr. and his wife Colleen of N.C. and Christopher E. Charbonneau of Cohoes; stepson, William Schermerhorn and his wife Christina of Nev.; cherished grandchildren, Christine, Jeremy and Casey Charbonneau and T.J. Murphy; brothers, Lawrence G. Charbonneau and Edward Charbonneau and his wife Florence, all of Saratoga. Several nieces and nephews also survive. He was predeceased by his brother, Francis N. Charbonneau and his feline companion, Nikki. Funeral from the Fitzgerald Funeral, Ltd., 105 Vliet Blvd., Cohoes, N.Y., Friday morning at 10:45. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Schenectady at 11:30. Interment will be in Memory's Garden, Colonie. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the funeral home Thursday 4-8 p.m. Those wishing to remember Hack may make contributions in his memory to St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2733 Albany St., Schenectady, NY 12304. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/28/2005 - 9/29/2005. Connors, James E. Nevada James E. Connors passed away September 3, 2005 in Nevada. Mr. Connors is survived by his sons, James, Patrick, Timothy and John Connors and his grandchildren, Emily and Eric. Funeral service Friday, October 7 at 3:00 p.m. at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, N.Y., (518) 581-9128. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Cook, Dorethea F. ALBANY Dorethea F. Cook died September 16, 2005 at her home. She was born on December 17, 1953 in Rosehill, N.C., to Alex Boykin and the late Willadean Boykin. Faye worked for Price Chopper and more recently for the Diocese of Albany. Faye is survived by her husband, William (Willie) Cook of Schenectady and her three children, Willie and Denarsha Cook of Albany and Jennifer Cook of Orlando. Also surviving are her four cherished grandsons, Markel Yates and Jahaad Chaney of Orlando, Fla. and Lanier Jones and Elijah Workman of Albany; her siblings, Doshie Davis, Clarence Tub Newton and Thomas L. (Donna) Boykin, all of Albany. Several aunts, uncles, nieces, cousins and friends also survive. The family would like to thank Allyson (Acacia) Cade for being there for Mrs. Cook from the beginning to the end. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Friday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at New Comer-Cannon Family Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie (Rt. 155 - south of Central Ave). A memorial service will follow at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. The family will be receiving callers immediately following the service at 665 Clinton Ave. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Duffy, James E. WATERVLIET James E. Duffy, 86, of 7th Avenue, died on Thursday, September 22, 2005. Born in Watervliet, the son of the late John J. and Anna McAneny Duffy and was a lifelong resident. He was a Navy veteran of World War II and was first employed by the state department of unemployment insurance and later by the Watervliet Arsenal, from where he retired in 1973 after 32 years of service. He was a communicant of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish and attended Mass at St. Patrick's Church in Watervliet. He was brother of Rita Fiachetti and uncle of Robert Fiachetti, both of N.J. He was predeceased by sister, Alma Kitchen, and friend, Josephine P. Murphy. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 9:30 a.m. in St. Patrick's Church, Watervliet and interment will follow in St. Patrick's Cemetery. All are invited to attend. In accordance with Mr. Duffy's wishes, there will be no calling hours and contributions may be made to St. Patrick's Church in his memory. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/28/2005 - 9/29/2005. Field, Jean (Memoriam) FIELD Jean In loving memory of Jean M. Field who passed away September 29, 2004. Mom, we celebrated your 67th birthday. They said it would get easier; they were wrong. You were a wonderful Mother, Grandmother, friend and nurse. We know you were there to meet Angelo on September 3. Our hearts still ache and our eyes tear up. Mom, we love and miss you very much. Joni, Kathy, Mary and Dee Dee Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Fink, Duane (Memoriam) FINK Duane. Remembering you on your birthday. We miss and keep you in our hearts always. Your smiling face will never be replaced. Dad and Evelyn Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Frinks, Marilyn (Memoriam) FRINKS Marilyn Marilyn, It's been over a year now and so many times in our daily lives we have reflected on how much we miss you. Thanks for enriching our lives and building so many golden memories. The Frinks Family Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Healy, Ruth (Memoriam) HEALY Ruth Hi, I never got to meet you, but I just wanted to say thank you for raising such a wonderful son. He makes me happier than I ever thought I could be! I wish I could have known you. I am sure we would have had many laughs reminiscing about Dave's childhood. I am sure you have met my mother by now. You have both been in heaven for five years. Actually, we are convinced that both of you are responsible for getting us together. You knew we would be perfect for each other. Thank you for that. Please give my mom a big kiss for me and tell her I said hi. Love, Donna and Dave Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Houck, Raymond (Memoriam) HOUCK Raymond, Dad It's been one year since you went to be with Mom and painfree. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you both and hope you are still my angels in the sky. Now that Otis has joined you and you are all together again, please guide and watch over me till we meet again. I love and miss you. Love, Janet PS: Happy Birthday Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Jabonaski, Stella Mary (Memoriam) JABONASKI Stella Mary Born 9/29/23 - Died 2/7/99 In memory of a wonderful friend on her birthday, we miss you very much. We love you very much. Happy birthday to the best! A faithful friend is the medicine of life. - Apocrypha Your Loving Friends, Pete & Olga Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Kimmel, Marjorie J. CLIFTON PARK Marjorie J. Hutch Kimmel, 77, of the Hollandale Apts., died on Tuesday, September 27, 2005 at her daughter's residence in Scotia after a brief illness. She was born on November 23, 1927 in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y. and was the daughter of the late John and Sarah McDowell Hutcheson. She was educated in the Scarsdale school system and was a graduate of the former Buffalo State Teachers College. Marjorie has been a Clifton Park resident for a number of years and earlier resided in Plano, Texas and Tonawanda, N.Y. She retired as a social worker from the Saratoga County Child Health Assistance Program. She was an active member of the Shenendehowa United Methodist Church and participated in their Sacred Journeys Group. She was a member of the Over the Speed Limit group and provided her talents doing much of the garden work at church. She leaves many dear friends at church along with her friends and members of the Grace Presbyterian Church in Plano, Texas. She was a member of the Collin County Senior Citizens in Texas and a volunteer with the Collin County Salvation Army and was a member of the Shenendehowa Senior Citizens in Clifton Park. She is the mother of Mrs. Florence (Michael) McClure of Scotia, Michael (Cristi) Kimmel of Ashburn, Va., Margaret (George) Nestuk Hrubenak of Malta, David (Marge) Kimmel of Clifton Park and the late William Joseph Kimmel; sister of Ruth (late John) Runge of Temple, N.H., Betty (Jack) Wolfe of Cleveland, Ohio, Sally (Charles) Lincoln of Richardson, Texas and the late John Hutcheson and Helen (late Peter) Faillace; sister-in-law of Marie Hutcheson of Port Orange, Fla.; grandmother of Sarah, Dawn, Joey, Meghan, Kristen and Andrea and great-grandmother of Erica; also survived by 14 nieces and nephews. Funeral will be held Monday morning at 10:30 from the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home, 1550 Rt. 9 in Clifton Park, thence to Shenendehowa United Methodist Church, 971 Route 146 in Clifton Park where at 11:00 services will be conducted. Calling hours will be from 2-6 p.m. Sunday in the funeral home. Interment will be in Jonesville Cemetery in Clifton Park. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Community Hospice, 1411 Union St., Schenectady, NY 12306 or to Shenendehowa United Methodist Church, 971 Route 146, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Lekht, Musya ALBANY Musya Lekht, age 87, of Hudson Avenue, Albany, died Wednesday, September 28, 2005 at the Albany Medical Center. She was predeceased by her husband Gdalya Lekht. Mother of Felix Lekht and his wife Lilya and Alfred Lekht and his wife Mila; grandmother of Victoria, Igor and Arina and great-grandmother of Rachel, Leonard and Ilan. Graveside service at the Independent Benevolent Cemetery, Fuller Road, Guilderland, N.Y. on Friday, September 30, 2005 at 1:00 noon. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Losaw, Scotte E. CANAJOHARIE Scotte E. Losaw, 32, died Monday, September 26, 2005 of an automobile accident at Ames, N.Y. He was born in Pittsfield, Mass. and had resided in Sharon Springs, N.Y. and Canajoharie, N.Y. He is the son of Myron Jr. and Wendy Rifenburgh Losaw. Scotte was employed at the Walmart Distribution Center in Sharon Springs, N.Y. He was also a part-time disc jockey, was a Nascar fan and loved hunting and fishing. Survivors in addition to his parents include a son, James Allen Losaw of Canajoharie; a sister, Kimberly Ann Losaw, Canajoharie; aunts and uncles, Paul and Lorean Losaw, Lenoxdale, Mass., Leslie and Gloria Losaw, West Stockbridge, Mass., Phyllis and George Schnider, South Lee, Mass. and Walter Rifenburgh Jr., South Bethlehem, N.Y.; great aunt and uncle, Don and Gloria Losaw and family, Troy; also survived by many cousins. Funeral service will be Friday 11 a.m., September 30, 2005 at the Tebbutt Funeral Home, 633 Central Avenue, Albany. Relatives and friends are also invited to call at the funeral home Friday 9 to 11 a.m. Interment will be in Albany Rural Cemetery at a later time. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/29/2005 - 9/30/2005. Massa, Michael J. ALBANY Michael J. Massa, 51, entered into eternal life surrounded by loved ones, following a long illness, on September 27, 2005 at Albany Medical Center. He is survived by immediate family; numerous relatives; many friends; his longtime friend, Sheilah Rourke; and his canine best friends, Liam, Peony and Gizmo. After earning his master's degree in social work from Wurzweiler School of Social Work of Yeshiva University in 1999, Michael used his incredible gift of giving back what was so freely given to him. Most recently, he worked as a clinical case specialist at Conifer Park in Scotia. Michael enjoyed his family, his friends, his dogs, golf and the outdoors. He particularly loved his spiritual retreats to Saranac Lake when he was well. A memorial service celebrating Michael's life will be held Saturday, October 1 at 5:45 p.m. at the Gleason Funeral Home, 730 Union Street, Schenectady. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a camper scholarship fund at Camp Good Days and Special Times, Inc., 1332 Pittsford-Mendon Road, Mendon, NY 14506. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/29/2005 - 9/30/2005. Merriman, Joseph P. (Memoriam) MERRIMAN In memory of Joseph P. Merriman on his 22nd anniversary. Dad, We miss you. Your memory lives on in us wherever we may be, for the gift of love you gave us, lives on eternally. Love, Your Family Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Musto, Celia WESTMERE Celia Tootie Feldman Musto, age 84, went to join her husband John in Heaven on Wednesday, September 28, 2005 with her daughter and son-in-law by her side. Celia was born in Albany on June 17, 1921, the daughter of the late Esther Lipitz and Isreal Feldman. Celia was the wife of the late John R. Musto. She is survived by her loving and devoted daughter, Esther and her husband Vince; her grandchildren, Alicia Rose and Nicholas Anthony, who loved and cherished their Bubbie; her dear friend, Joseph Leto, who was like a son to her; her dear niece, Sharon (Barry) Wishengrad; her sister, Roslind Platt; and many nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her siblings, Anita, Paula, Sophie, Benjamin, Maxie and Sam. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral services at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 29, 2005 at the Reilly & Son Funeral Home, Colonie. Interment will follow in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery in Colonie. At Celia's request, please send no flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to the Academy of the Holy Names or the charity of one's choice. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Polydouris, Christine ALBANY Mrs. Christine Thomas (Thomopoulos) Polydouris, 85 years old, passed away of Alzheimer's and lung congestion. Christina died on September 25, 2005, 9:30 p.m. in Latham, North Colonie, N.Y. at her home, the Villa American Kalamata-Lagadia overlooking Shaker Bay on a hill above the Mohawk River. Christina was born in Salem, Mass. on August 2, 1920. She was the daughter of Demetrios and Constantina Thomas (Thomopoulos). The name was legally changed before her brother Theodore was accepted at M.I.T. (Massachusetts Institute of Technology). Christine was born at home near downtown Salem and eventually the family moved to their home on Geneva Street in 1929, one month before the Great Depression hit. The family lived in the two-family house and rented one flat. The house was sold by Christine's mother after the death of her husband. Two siblings died in infancy from the influenza of 1917-1920, the first Theodore and Christine. Four children survived, Theodore, who died three years ago; Constantine, who died in 1970, a World War II Army Air Corps pilot; and her sister, Helen Macheras. Christine attended the Saltonstall School K-8, two blocks from her home, and Salem High School, Class of 1938. She graduated from Salem Teachers College in 1943 with her sister Helen. Christine took one year off to work for her family because of the stroke her father suffered. She worked at Lally's clothing store in downtown Salem as a sales girl (no associates at that time). Summers, she was an executive secretary for the chief counsel at Sylvania Electric Products in Salem as well as working one summer in the then-new Pentagon in Arlington, Va. She stayed only one month since Washington, D.C. in those days had no air conditioning. Christine also worked on Long Island for one month. She missed the cool ocean breezes of the North Shore and the ocean front parks of Salem, like Salem Willows and Forest River Park, the parks she learned to swim at during her youth. Christine was a tour guide at the Witch House one summer in Salem. The historic home was the residence of three women who were executed for witchcraft. Christine would do the housework at home, cooking and cleaning while the boys and sister Helen were more athletic. Christine did enjoy basketball in high school and college and wanted to major in foreign languages, that she and her sister excelled in in high school. She understood, spoke and wrote Modern Greek, having been tutored at home with her siblings on the dining room table twice a week. Christine took Latin, German (more important then with the rise of Hitler) and French. Salem Teachers College had no language majors but did have business. Both sisters majored in business and received baccalaureates in science in business education. There was only one building then, along with the student teaching grammar school next door. Christine worked in the bookstore. Her first teaching job was at South Royalton High School in Vt. She became certified in three states: Mass., Vt. and N.Y. She taught and wrote shorthand, a lost art. Business education or commercial education, as it was sometimes called. She taught at South Royalton during the 1943-44 school year. That old building is now Vermont Law School. The city girl dated a dairy farmer and became engaged. During World War II, farmers and priests were exempt from the armed forces. She broke the engagement when she took a teaching job at Bennington High School, Bennington, Vt., 1944-45. She played field hockey against Carroll Channing when the high school faculty played against the Bennington College girls. Christine lived with a Greek-American family in Bennington. Helen had taken a teaching job at Highland Falls, N.Y. High School so Christine jumped at a teaching offer from the village of Florida, N.Y. nearby. They both dated West Point cadets and attended dances at the Point. Christine became engaged a second time to the principal! She broke off the second engagement. She taught at Florida High School 1945-46, then at Amesbury High School, Amesbury, Mass. which she commuted to by car from Salem, Mass. where she lived with her family. In 1952, she received her master's of science degree from Boston University School of Education. She commuted on Saturdays for two years by train with her friend Tina Leftes of Salem for classes at BU. Christine took some additional courses at Russell Sage of Albany, N.Y. Certification. Marriage brought her to Albany, in 1953. She became engaged to Nicholas J. Polydouris after one date. He was visiting his relatives in Ipswich, Mass., the Nikas families, after completing business in Boston for his private company, the Albany Linen Service. They met at a private house party in Salem and were married in November of 1953 in Salem. They honeymooned at the Greenbrier Hotel, Greenbrier, W.Va., motoring from Albany and visiting her married sister Helen in Covington, Va. Exactly nine months later, a son John was born at Albany Medical, her only child because Christine had a hysterectomy afterward. She had been told not to come home if it were not a boy by her mother-in-law. While she was pregnant, they lived on Elm Street, Downtown Albany and, before John was born, they bought a house on Western Avenue, two blocks from Albany High School. An old school man, her husband bought the house on his own. She went to substitute at Albany High for one week and was called into the office on Friday by the principal, Mr. Lincoln. He had walked by her classes and was perplexed as to why the students were quiet with a substitute. He asked her if she would like a permanent teaching job - she mentioned she had a small boy and she would consult with Nicholas. She returned and accepted the job she kept for 25 years, from 1955-1980, and was the first Greek-American teacher in the Capital District. She worked for the New York State Education Department for a few summers supervising the correction of regents exams. Christine was the top business teacher at Albany High and the best dressed as well. She loved shopping at the Country Miss, Flah's, Solomon's, Dahl's and Kral's. Her husband cancelled her store credit cards once! After the death of her mother-in-law, Christine and Nicholas almost divorced, but stayed together for John. Their bond of Holy Matrimony was tried but was unbroken and they were faithful only to each other. Her husband Nicholas took care of her for 20 years with Alzheimer's, especially the hardest last ten years. Nicholas believed in the vow, in sickness and in health till death do us part. In 1952, Christine motored throughout America in a brand new Plymouth Convertible with three other teachers from Amesbury. They went to Calif., Ore., Mont., Alberta, British Columbia, Mexico and some 40 states and provinces and many national parks. She said she liked home the most. They left Amesbury the day after school ended in June 1952 and returned the day before it started in September of 1952. Christine continued to travel with her son to Greece and Cyprus and throughout the USA, the Caribbean and Canada. In 1974, she and John had 1st class Eurail passes and traveled Europe by train and boat for two and one-half months, returning because of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, an island they were expected to visit. She did visit Cyprus in 1979 with John for two weeks to show solidarity with the Cypriot people. She went to the Tomb of Makarios to pay respects. Christine visited Greek Macedonia, the birthplace of Alexander the Great, and enjoyed the beautiful islands especially Cephalonia, Rhodes, Corfu and Kalamata and the village of Lagadia which her parents left at ages 17 and six. She was a great benefactor of St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church and donated the chandelier above the altar and a gold communion cup and spoon with her husband. She was a past member of the American Association ... Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Polydouris, Christine Pontian Club of Watervliet and the Capital District, all Pontians are requested to attend the Trisagion at 7:30 p.m. at Tebbutt Funeral Home for our past member Christine. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Polydouris, Christine Pan Arcadian Federation, all members are requested to attend the Trisagion at 7:30 p.m. at Tebbutt Funeral Home for our past member Christine. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Polydouris, Christine Pan Messenian Federation, all members are requested to attend the Trisagion at 7:30 p.m. for our past member Christine at Tebbutt Funeral Home. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Polydouris, Christine T. A.P.S.T.A. the Albany Public School Teachers Association Union members are requested to attend the wake of Sister Polydouris at Tebbutt Funeral Home, 4-8 p.m. Friday. Sister Christine joined the union, before it became a mandatory union shop, as soon as the union was formed. She was a past member of N.E.A. and NYSUT. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Polydouris, Christine T. Greek American Democratic Club of Albany, all members are requested to attend the wake of lifelong enrolled Democrat Christine at Tebbutt Funeral Home, 4-8 p.m. Friday. Christine Taught with Mayor Jennings at Albany High School and he always kissed her when he saw her. She always voted for him, and never missed an election, primary or caucus. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Polydouris, Christine T. Daughters of Penelope Alope Chapter #158, Albany, N.Y., all sisters are requested to attend the Daughters ritual for Sister Christine at 7:00 p.m. at Tebbutt Funeral Home. Christine was a life member, past sentinel of the chapter and delegate to district and supreme conventions in the 1980s. She was the widow of the founder of our chapter. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Ranellucci, Harriet Members of the West Albany Italian Benevolent Society wish to express our deepest regrets to the passing of our Brother Ronald's mother Harriet. Brothers wishing to pay their respects are welcome to call at the Lasak & Gigliotti Funeral Home today from 4-8 p.m. WILLIAM DONATO JR. President SAL D'AMORE Chaplain Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Ranellucci, Harriet TROY Harriet Mae Groat Ranellucci, age 70, entered into eternal life Wednesday, September 28, 2005 suddenly. Born in Hudson, Harriet was a homemaker for 53 years. She loved her home and family and enjoyed cooking for them. Daughter of the late Irving and Mabel Groat. Beloved wife of the late John J. Ranellucci Sr.; loving mother of Harriet (Christopher) Valla, Michele (Francis) Collins, Holly (Frank) LaTorre, Dolores (Karl) Kniele, Raymond (Sharon) Ranellucci, Ronald (Mary) Ranellucci, Steven (Jennifer) Ranellucci and John Ranellucci Jr.; sister of Helen Lansing and the late Irene Swift; sister-in-law of Ann Ranellucci Haas. Also survived by 20 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and 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.) Friday morning at 8 o'clock and 9:00 a.m. at the Church of St. Michael, Troy. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend and may also call at the funeral home Thursday 4 to 8 p.m. Interment will be in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, East Greenbush. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/29/2005 - 9/30/2005. Schmidt, Marilyn I. RAVENA Marilyn I. Schmidt, DVM, 52, entered eternal life suddenly Tuesday, September 27, 2005. Marilyn was the daughter of the late George and Irene Schmidt. Survivors include her husband F. Richard Lesser, DVM; sons, Evan Schmidt Lesser and Craig Schmidt Lesser; daughter, Taryn Schmidt Lesser; and brothers, Michael Schmidt of Boston and Robert Schmidt of Rochester. Marilyn partook and rejoiced in her family's life and activities, including their farm (horses and livestock), sports (skiing, soccer, swimming and sailing), as well as school, church, 4-H and scouting activities. Marilyn was also a leader in the field of equine veterinary medicine. As the owner of the Equine Clinic at OakenCroft, she tirelessly served the needs of horses and horsemen throughout upstate New York for 27 years. Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 1 at St. Patrick's Church, Ravena. Friends may call at the Babcock Funeral Home, Ravena on Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that a donation in memory of Marilyn be made to support equine programs at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine. Contributions may be sent to, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, S2 005 Schurman Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/29/2005 - 9/30/2005. Schreiner, Walter CLIFTON PARK Walter (Walt) Schreiner, 75, of Barcelona Drive, died Tuesday, September 27, 2005 at Ellis Hospital after a short illness. Born on December 13, 1929 in Albany, N.Y., he was the son of the late Walter and Eva Tenant Schreiner. Walt was a graduate and class valedictorian of Glens Falls High School, class of 1947. He was a graduate of Dartmouth College and received his master's in business administration from Tuck's University. Walt was a Korean War veteran serving with the United States Air Force. Walt was employed for over 35 years at General Electric as a financial analyst at the R&D center in Niskayuna. Walt and his wife were longtime SPAC patrons. Walt is survived by his loving and devoted wife Joyce Hutton, whom he married May 5, 1956; one loving son, Eric Schreiner of Clifton Park. Funeral services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association - Northeast Affiliate, PO Box 3049, Syracuse, NY 13220-3049 or to the American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Road, Loudonville, NY 12211. Arrangements have been entrusted by the family to the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home, 1550 Route 9, Clifton Park, NY 12065. 518-371-5454. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Shade, Ray W. CLIFTON PARK Ray W. Shade, Ph.D., of Eldorado Drive, died on Wednesday, September 21, 2005 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Souderton, Pa. and was the son of the late Issac and Mary Shelly Shade. Ray was a graduate of Souderton High School and was just recently elected to their hall of fame. He was a US Navy veteran, serving from January 10, 1945 until June 25, 1946 when he was honorably discharged as a seaman 2nd class. Ray received the American Theatre Medal and the Victory Medal. He received his S.B. and S.M. degrees from MIT in chemical engineering and his Ph.D. from RPI. He started with the Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory in 1951 and joined the GE Corporate R&D Center in 1953 where he held several managerial positions. In 1970, he joined the staff of RPI as an assistant professor and returned to GE at the silicone products department in Waterford where he retired as manager of advanced technology in 1990. After retirement, Dr. Shade continued his professional career in the R&D area as a special consultant in R&D program development. He was an active participant in many professional societies including the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, American Chemical Society, American Association of Advanced Science and the New York Academy of Science. He was also a member of Sigma Xi, Chi Epsilon and Phi Lamda Upsilon honor societies. Dr. Shade held several patents in the area of advance materials and chemical processing, both in the United States and many foreign countries. Dr. Shade also received the Silver Medallion Award for his patent contributions. He received the Duschman Award from the G.E. Corporate R&D Center for his outstanding contributions in the area of catalysis. He was also recognized for his many contributions to the MIT Practice School. During retirement, Dr. Shade continued his desire to help young students by creating and coordinating an innovative, intergenerational tutoring program linking teachers, scientists and engineers with students at Shenendehowa High School in the areas of mathematics and science. It was for this program that he was honored by the State of New York by receiving the state office for the aging's Achievement is Ageless award. He also received the Shenendehowa Superintendent's Award. This program, under the auspices of the Shenendehowa Senior Citizens' Center Care Links Volunteer program, started in the fall of 1997 and helps more than 1000 students each year. Seeing young minds flood with the light of understanding filled Ray with an immense joy. These awards were examples of Dr. Shade's lifelong aspirations to mentor and develop students, engineers and scientists. Ray also received the key to the Town Clifton Park for his other outstanding contributions. He was an active member and participant of the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Clifton Park. He was also a member of the American Legion Mohawk Post 1450 in Halfmoon. He is the beloved husband of Nancy Gray Shade, whom he married on May 17, 1952. He is the devoted father of Mrs. Karyn Shade and her husband Gordon of Clifton Park; brother of the late Lester, Howard and Miriam Shade King; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Funeral will be held Monday morning at 10:00 from the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 8 Northcrest Drive in Clifton Park with Pastor Chuck officiating. Calling hours will be on Sunday from 2:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. in the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home, 1550 Rt. 9, Clifton Park. Interment with full military honors will be in the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ray W. Shade Scholarship Fund established with Shenendehowa High School in care of the funeral home. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/28/2005 - 9/30/2005. Sutton Jr., Albert (Memoriam) SUTTON Albert Jr. You are missed and thought of often. Your memory will forever remain in our hearts. Your Sister Katherine Miller and Family Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Szostak, Michael S. COHOES Michael S. Szostak, 22, of Cohoes, died suddenly at his home on Tuesday, September 27, 2005. Born in Cohoes, he grew up in Latham and returned to Cohoes three years ago. Michael was a graduate of Shaker High School and had been employed for the last four years by the Albany County Office of General Services. Michael enjoyed motorcycling and was training for competitive boxing. He is the beloved son of Edward and Claudette Gagnon Szostak of Latham; devoted brother of Nadine (Sean) Mortimer of Revere, Mass. and Christopher Szostak of Cohoes; uncle of Alyssa and Brennan Mortimer; loving grandson of Blanche Brennan Szostak of Latham and the late Edward J. Szostak and the late George and Jeannette Favreau Gagnon; also survived by several aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral from the McNulty Funeral Home, 147 Hudson Avenue, Green Island on Friday at 10:45 a.m. thence to Holy Trinity Church on Vliet Boulevard in Cohoes, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Interment in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Waterford. Calling hours will be on Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/29/2005 - 9/30/2005. Topolski Sr., John W. GLENVILLE John W. Topolski Sr., of Glendale Nursing Home and formerly of Latham, died Tuesday, September 27, 2005 at his residence. Born June 20, 1916 in Albany and educated there, he was the son of the late Frank and Mary Browarski Topolski. John was retired from the former Allegheny Ludlum Steel Co. where he had been employed for 42 years. He was a member of the Watervliet Lodge of Elks and the Vagabond Club in Green Island. He was husband of the late Rose Lipina Topolski, who died in 2003. He is survived by his children, John W. Topolski Jr. of Albany, Barbara J. Topolski of Troy and Ellen Wattsman of Clifton Park. He is brother of Genevieve Novak of Loudonville, the late Chester Topolski and Helen Madanowski; also surviving are his grandchildren, Terri-ann Wattsman M.D. of Roanoke, Va., Christopher M. Wattsman of Schenectady, Mari-ann Wattsman and Robert M. Wattsman Jr. of Clifton Park. Funeral services will be Friday at 9:30 a.m. from the Philip J. Brendese Funeral Home, 133 Broad St. (Rt. 32), Waterford and at 10 a.m. at St. Michael's Church in Cohoes. Interment will be in St. Michael's Cemetery, Waterford. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home Thursday 4-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Michael's Church in care of the funeral home office. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/28/2005 - 9/29/2005. Van Gelder, Joan S. ALBANY Joan S. Van Gelder, formerly of Schodack, died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, September 24, 2005. She was born in Castleton, N.Y. on New Year's Day in 1928. Before retiring, Joan worked for many years as a stenographer for the NY State Education Department. She is survived by two daughters, Bonnie Betz of Oviedo, Fla. and Jane Van Gelder of San Diego, Calif; four grandchildren, Christy, Erika, Greg and Daniel Betz of Oviedo; and a sister, Ysobel Nusbaum of Castleton. Joan was predeceased by a daughter, Susan Theresa Van Gelder. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral Friday, September 30, 2005 at 9:30 a.m. at Ray Funeral Home, 59 Seaman Ave., Castleton, N.Y. and 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 3 Catholic Way, Castleton where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Calling hours Thursday 7-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Wanamaker, Harold R. SCHENECTADY Harold R. Beans Wanamaker, 78, died Monday, September 26, 2005. He was the husband of Anne Ernst Wanamaker; father of nine; grandfather of 12, great-grandfather of four; a brother, an uncle and a friend to many. Services 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 30, 2005, Light's Funeral Home. Calling prior to the services 1-2 p.m. at the funeral home. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Wandell, Grace M. ALBANY Grace M. Wandell, 94, died Sunday, September 25, 2005 at Albany Medical Center Hospital after sustaining a massive stroke at her home only a few days prior. Of Scottish and Native American descent, Grace was born October 31, 1910, one of eight children to Malcolm and Marie Bushie McIntyre of Superior, Wis. Gracie is survived by her husband of almost 50 years, John (Jack) B. Wandell; her one remaining sister, Alice Parrish of Wash. state; and by her four sons from a previous marriage to the late William McGrath, Kenneth R. McGrath of Las Vegas, Nev., John (Jack) McGrath and his wife Mary Ellen of East Alton, Ill., William McGrath Jr. of Anchorage, Alaska and Earl McGrath of New York City. She is the grandmother of Cindy Bannister, Layne Madsen, John McGrath Jr. (Sandy), William McGrath (Roben), Michele McCool (David), Anna Blankenship (Stuart), John Spires, Garnetta, Lynn, Cindy, Gracie, Michael McGrath and Maria McGrath, who spent countless hours at her grandmother's bedside during her last hours. Grace is also survived by six great-grandchildren. Besides Grace's aforementioned family members, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Mary Glaser; a granddaughter, Cheryl Macintosh; and a grandson, William McGrath, the beloved son of Kenneth R. McGrath. In her younger days, Gracie was a registered nurse for the Sisters of St. Joseph in Wis. Later in the 1950s, while visiting the then-territory of Alaska, she became a charter member of a pioneering theatre group, the Anchorage Drama Lab. It was then that she met the group's founder and director, Albany, N.Y. born Jack Wandell, while auditioning for a part in a William Saroyan play. She got the role and the director. They were soon married in nearby Palmer. Among theatrical notables who have praised the Drama Lab were Tennessee Williams, Arthur Franz, Lee J. Cobb, Walter Brennan and James Whitmore, who appeared with Grace in a Eugene O'Neill play. Learning of her death this week, Whitmore, a great trouper of stage, screen, television and Academy Award-nominee, said Grace was truly a nonpareil, a very special lady against whom most other women pale by comparison, and this news only supports what I've known and held dear for so many years now: she was one of nature's noblewomen, and I'll forever remain in awe of her life-affirming spirit. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday morning at 9:30 at Holy Cross Church, Western Ave. and Rosemont St. in Albany. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005. Woehrmann, Harry M. ALBANY Harry M. Woehrmann, 84, of Albany, died Wednesday, September 28, 2005 at the Hospice Inn of St. Peter's Hospital. Born in Albany, he was the son of the late Ferdinand and Julia Leonard Woehrmann. He attended Albany Public Schools. Mr. Woehrmann worked as a transport driver for Interstate Brands, Millbrook Bread Division for 21 years, retiring in 1984. Upon retiring, he worked for the City of Albany for several years as an equipment operator #1. Mr. Woehrmann was a World War II Army veteran, serving in the Pacific Theatre, and a member of the American Legion Post 1040 Nathaniel Blanchard, Delmar. He is husband of the late Anna Brieger Woehrmann; father of Joseph A. Woehrmann and his wife Diane Elaine of Westmere and James H. Woehrmann and his wife Mary of Glenmont; brother of Ferdinand Woehrmann of Clifton Park and the late Julia Blair, William Woehrmann and Lucille Woehrmann; grandfather of Corey and Stacey Tymchyn, Elaine and Anne Woehrmann. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Glenmont. Published in the Albany Times Union from 9/29/2005 - 9/30/2005. Zawisza, Camille AMSTERDAM Camille Zawisza, 91, formerly of Grand Street, Amsterdam died Tuesday, September 27, 2005 at the Edward L. Wilkinson Residential Healthcare Facility, Amsterdam. She was a lifelong Amsterdam resident. She was married to Joseph C. Zawisza on March 19, 1945. He died on May 11, 1992. She is survived by her son, Larry J. Zawisza (Judy) of Albany; her daughter, Christina A. Zawisza of Memphis, Tenn.; grandchildren, Karen and James Zawisza, both of Cambridge, Mass.; her brother, Joseph Markulis of Fultonville; her sister, Charlotte Zostautas of Amsterdam; sister-in-law, Mary Zawisza of Amsterdam; nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Amsterdam Funeral Chapel, 13 Belmont Place, Amsterdam followed at 11:00 a.m. by a Mass of Christian Burial at the Church of Saint John the Baptist. Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery, Amsterdam. Calling hours will be Friday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral chapel. Donations in her memory may be made to the Church of Saint John the Baptist or to St. Catherine of Siena School, 35 Hurst Avenue, Albany, NY 12208. Published in the Albany Times Union on 9/29/2005.