Obituaries

Jonathan R. Straight, 20, went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ on Monday, May 13, 2019. Born on September 6, 1998 in Schenectady, NY, he was the son of Richard and Deborah (Corey) Straight.

Jonathan was a graduate of Ballston Spa High School class of 2017 and completed the International Baccalaureate Program of studies. He completed two years of undergraduate study at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Michigan, majoring in Transportation Design. He is an accomplished artist and worked with a wide variety of media, focusing on automotive exterior design. Jonathan had a great sense of style and humor; making everyone feel like they were his new best friend.

Jonathan is survived by his parents Richard and Deborah, his grandmother Pearl Straight, his grandmother Lois Corey, his brother David and David’s wife Becca and their children Emerson and Hazel, his sister Sarah, his girlfriend Miranda Blaauboer, uncles, aunts, and cousins.

Calling hours will be held at Northway Church 770 Pierce Road in Clifton Park from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Friday, May 17. A memorial service will be held at Northway Church at 10:00 am on Saturday, May 18. Family and Friends are invited to attend both the calling hours and memorial service. The Armer Funeral Home, Inc. is supporting the remembrance process.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Jonathan may be made to Northway Church for a fund to assist the Straight family and support mental health awareness.

Juanita M. Coon, 101, passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2019, at Wesley Health Care Center. Born in Mechanicville, NY on November 10, 1917, she was the daughter of Palmer and Ivah Isles.

Juanita owned and operated Coon’s Variety Store on Front Street in Ballston Spa for many years. She enjoyed crocheting, baking cookies, and Sunday dinners with her family. Her family was her greatest joy and she treasured the time she spent with them.

She was predeceased by her husband Robert Coon, and her sisters Thelma and Lorraine. Juanita is survived by her children David Coon (Pam) of Ballston Spa and Mary Ann Frament (David) of Clifton Park; four grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, a niece and a nephew.

Funeral services will be held 10am Friday, May 17 at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. Burial will follow in Ballston Spa Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Thursday, May 16 from 5pm to 7pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Juanita may be made to Easy St. Horse and Barnyard Rescue, 109 Langley Road, Amsterdam, NY 12010 or the American Cancer Society.

Patricia Mercuri, 82, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Born on November 22, 1936 in Albany, she was the daughter of Albert and Teresa (Lombardo) Mercuri.

Patricia was a graduate of Albany High School and Albany Business College. She was a dance instructor with the Arthur Murray Dance Studio and later worked as a waitress for many establishments in the capital district area. Patricia was an animal lover, rescuing dogs and cats locally, and was an active contributor to the Capital District Humane Association. She always enjoyed shopping at flea markets and antiquing.

Patricia is predeceased by her parents, Albert and Teresa Mercuri. She is survived by her sister, Maria Mercuri (Robert Strouse) of Edgartown, MA; a nephew, Mark VanAlstyne (Lynn) of Syracuse, NY; her aunt, Vi Lombardo of Glenmont, NY; and many cousins.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.

The family would like to thank the staff at Saratoga Hospital, especially Dr. Jennifer White, and the staff at Mary’s Haven for their care and compassion.

Memorial contributions may be made in Patricia’s memory to Capital District Humane Association, P.O. Box 11330, Loudonville, NY 12211.

Kathleen A. Kuznia, 63, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on April 26th, 2019.

Kathy was born on April 25th, 1956 in Washington D.C. to Dr. William and Ann (Neville) Kelley, the eldest of six children. The family relocated to Ballston Spa, NY in 1966, where Kathy would spend the rest of her life.

Kathy was a graduate of Ballston Spa High School, class of 1974. She went on to graduate from the State University of New York at Oswego in 1978 and began a career with the Saratoga County Probation Department, where she would remain until her retirement in 2010.

To most, Kathy was the kindest person they had ever met. She had a heart of gold that shined through the warm smile that was always on her face. Kathy took joy in the simple things, such as painting crafts, going out to lunch and nurturing plants with her “green thumb”. Nothing brought Kathy more pride and joy than being a Mother. Kathy was happiest spending time with her beloved children, TJ and Annie - “The Tripod”.

Kathy was predeceased by her mother, Ann Kelley, and sister Deborah Gates. She is survived by her loving children TJ Kuznia and Annie Kuznia, father Dr. William Kelley, sister Maureen (Rick) Cooper, brother William Kelley, brother Michael Kelley, sister Bridget (Pete) Zimmer, along with several adored nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to call on Tuesday, April 30th from 4 PM to 8 PM at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, May 1st at 9:30am at St. Mary’s Church in Ballston Spa.

Kelly Collins, 60, passed away on Saturday, April 20, 2019, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born in Niskayuna, NY on February 14, 1959. Kelly was a truck driver and drove for Carman Fuel for many years.

Kelly was an avid NY Rangers fan and loved listening to Pink Floyd and Lynyrd Skynyrd. He enjoyed his John Deere tractor and watching Fox News. Kelly could often be seen with his dog Gunner, his constant companion.

Kelly was a hardworking, well respected man. He was a loving husband and father who protected his family. He was the dad that could answer any question and the friend that would always be there to lend a hand, never complaining.

He was predeceased by his father Charles Collins, Sr. Kelly is survived by his wife Doreen; children James Collins, Charles Collins III and Amy Collins; mother Eleanor “Lenny” Wagner; sister Sherrie Collins; stepmother Kris Rafferty; stepsister Erin Lowery; and his large extended family.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Thursday, April 25 from 10am to 11am at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A service will be held at 11am. Burial will follow in Middle Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in memory of Kelly may be made to Corinth Youth Hockey, c/o Dave Barrass 149 County Route 10, Corinth, NY 12822.

The family would like to thank the staff of Saratoga Hospital ICU for their care and compassion.

Chester J. Kolinoski, 92, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2019 at his home. Born in Queens, NY on November 8, 1926, he was the son of Henry and Stella Kolinoski.

He served as a gunners mate in the US Navy and was a World War II veteran. Chester worked for the NYC Department of Sanitation for many years. In 2001, Chester and his wife moved to Ballston Spa to be closer to their daughter and their beloved grandchildren.

Chester enjoyed long car rides, morning coffee at McDonald’s, and visiting the local casinos. He was a communicant of St. Mary’s Church in Ballston Spa. His favorite TV shows were Ninja Warriors and The Big Bang Theory. His greatest joy was his family and he treasured the time he spent with them.

He was predeceased by his brother Raymond Kolinoski. Chester is survived by his wife of 61 years Bridget, and their daughter Maureen Kolinoski of Ballston Spa; grandchildren John Holton (Ellie) of San Francisco, CA, and Matthew Holton (Jenelle) of Ballston Spa; great granddaughter Florence; and nephews Donald and Raymond.

Funeral services will be held 9:30am Tuesday, April 23 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa, where a mass of Christian burial will be celebrated. Burial will follow in St. Peter’s Cemetery, Saratoga Springs. Relatives and friends are invited to call from 4pm to 7pm on Monday, April 22 at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa.

Memorial contributions in memory of Chester may be made to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

David J. Beals 71, passed away on Friday, April 5, 2019. Born in Niskayuna, NY on February 12, 1948, he was the son of Clarence and Eva Beals. He was a graduate of Ballston Spa High School.

David began his career as a chef at Red’s Restaurant, which is now known as the Ripe Tomato. He was a long haul tractor trailer driver for many trucking companies and later drove school bus for Ballston Spa Central Schools for many years, retiring in 2006.

David served as Planning Board Chairman for the Village of Ballston Spa and was a member of the Town of Milton Zoning Board. David also served as an election inspector for the Village of Ballston Spa, Town of Milton and School elections.

He enjoyed taking long rides in the country with his lifelong friend Greg “Whitey”, usually using a full tank of gas. He also enjoyed racing radio controlled cars and playing golf. David was a stock car racing fan and worked at the Albany Saratoga Speedway and Fonda Speedway. He owned several classic cars. He was the Trivia king and played at all the local restaurants on Trivia Night.

David loved all his animals and rescued many from the animal shelter. He was loved by his neighbors and friends and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

He was predeceased by his parents Clarence and Eva Beals, and his brothers Charles Beals and Peter Beals. David is survived by his wife of 23 years Carol; son Jeffrey Beals; granddaughter Meghan; brothers Paul Beals (Audrey) and William Beals (Leonilde); many nieces, nephews and special friends.

All are invited to a celebration of David’s life on Friday, April 12 from 5pm to 8pm in the upstairs banquet room at The Factory, 20 Prospect Street, Ballston Spa. A memorial service will be held at 6pm.

A dinner buffet will be served starting at 5pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter, 6010 County Farm Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020.

Jonathan J. Nutting “JJ” 37, passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2019. Born in Plattsburgh, NY on May 21, 1981, he was the son of Steven and Catherine Nutting. He was a graduate of Saratoga Springs High School and earned an associate degree in Radio and Television Broadcasting from Adirondack Community College.

Jonathan was a devoted NY Mets and NY Giants fan. He loved sports and going to the games. He enjoyed country music concerts, playing video games, and watching movies. He never missed a fair or a parade. Jonathan traveled throughout the United States with his mom, visiting Disney, Las Vegas and California.

He was predeceased by his brother Jason, and his grandparents Warren and Barbara Nutting, and John and Frances Bena. Jonathan is survived by his parents Steven and Catherine Nutting; brothers Michael and Travis; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to call from 9am to 10am Saturday, April 6 at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A service will be held at 10am. Burial will follow in St. Peter’s Cemetery, Saratoga Springs.

Memorial contributions in memory of Jonathan may be made to the Lexington Foundation, 465 North Perry Street, Johnstown, NY 12095.

The family would like to thank the staff of the Lexington VanRen Home for their care and compassion.

Glenn E. Bowers, Sr., passed away on Monday, March 25, 2019. Born in Ballston Spa, NY on July 13, 1948, he was the son of Russell and Dorothy Bowers, Sr. He was a graduate of Ballston Spa High School. Glenn was an Army veteran, serving in Vietnam.

Glenn was a cable splicing technician working for Verizon for 35 years. He was a 52 year member of Union Fire Co. No. 2 serving as fire chief and foreman. He was also a member of VFW Post 358 in Ballston Spa. Glenn enjoyed camping, cruising and going to Nascar races with his family.

He was predeceased by his parents Russell and Dorothy. Glenn is survived by his wife of 49 years, Patricia Bowers and their children, Kristina Bowers, Glenn Bowers, Jr. (Kristie) and Betsy Wade (Jon); grandchildren Michaela (Christopher), Aubrey, Steven, Kodie, and Siarra; brother Russell Bowers, II (Trudy); sister Bonnie Stone (Gary); several nieces and nephews; and his beloved dogs Rufus and Fiona.

Funeral services will be held 10am Monday, April 1 at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. Burial with military honors will follow at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Sunday, March 31 from 4pm to 8pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Glenn may be made to Union Fire Co. No. 2.

The family would like to thank the ICU staff at Saratoga Hospital for their care and support during his time there.

Robert J. Clancy 81, beloved husband and father, died on Monday, March 18, 2019, following a long illness during which he was cared for by his wife. Robert was born on January 6, 1938 and grew up in the Bronx with his parents Edna and Peter and his brother Ken. He attended Fordham Prep where he competed in track. He left the city to pursue a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in chemical engineering at the University of Detroit.

In 1971, he and his wife Bernadine moved to Ballston Spa, New York and raised their family. Robert worked for Knolls Atomic Power Lab (KAPL) as an engineer for 27 years. He loved the outdoors, gardening, and listening to classical music. Robert will be remembered for his quiet nature, his “do it yourself” abilities and the amazing Clancy family tree he researched with a passion.

He is predeceased by his parents Peter and Edna (Riley) Clancy. Robert is survived by his wife of 55 years Bernadine; his children and their spouses, Christine Bennedsen (Mark), Peter Clancy (Maureen), and Robert Clancy (Mary Ellen); grandchildren Sarah, Zachary and Jacob Bennedsen; Joseph and William Clancy; and Kathleen, Grace and John Clancy; brother and sister in law Kenneth Clancy (Carol); and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 9:30am Saturday, March 23 at St. Mary’s Church, Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa, where a mass of Christian burial will be celebrated. Burial will be in St Mary’s Cemetery, Galway, in the Spring. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, March 22 from 4pm to 6pm at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa.

John L. Knabner 70, passed away on March 18, 2019 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Schenectady, NY on September 21, 1948, he was the son of John and Harriet Knabner.

John began his career at Curtis Lumber on July 15, 1970. He was a purchasing agent and also worked in the store for 45 years, retiring in 2015. After his retirement, he continued to work at the store part time until May of 2016.

John was a member of the Ballston Center ARP Church serving as a deacon and an elder. He was a life member of Saraspa Rod and Gun Club and an active member of the Kayaderosseras Fish and Game Club. He enjoyed fishing and skeet shooting and ran the skeet program at the Kayaderosseras.

John spent his summers with his family at their camp on Lake Champlain in Vermont.

John married his high school sweetheart Sandra Hopkins on June 7, 1969. Family was very important to him and he treasured the time he spent with his children and grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents John and Harriet Knabner and his sister Lois Ann Hudson. John is survived by his wife Sandra Knabner; children Lori Friguletto and Sean Knabner (Melissa); grandsons Shane and Thomas; sisters Cheryl Hicks and Kim LaFlair; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Funeral services will be held 10am Friday, March 22 at the Ballston Center Church, 58 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa. Burial will be in Jonesville Cemetery in the Spring. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Thursday, March 21 from 4pm to 7pm at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa.

Memorial contributions in memory of John may be made to the Ballston Center Church or American Cancer Society.

Susan C. Potter, 71, passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2019, surrounded by her family. She was born in Schenectady, NY on April 29, 1947 and graduated from Burnt Hills Ballston Lake High School.

Susan was a bus driver for Ballston Spa Central Schools for many years. She was an avid reader and enjoyed visiting lighthouses. Her greatest joy was her grandchildren and she treasured the time she spent with them.

She was predeceased by her parents George and Betty Potter, and her son Robert Nelson. Susan is survived by her children Kevin Donovan (Billie), Michael Donovan and Tanya Hatfield (Matt McNeill); siblings John, Michael, Tonylou and Maria; seven grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Tuesday, March 19 from 5pm to 7pm at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A service will follow at 7pm. Burial will be in Memory Gardens, Colonie on Wednesday, March 20 at 10am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter, 6010 County Farm Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020.

Rae F. Laird 87, passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2019. Born in Amsterdam, NY, on September 14, 1931, she was the daughter of Raymond and Helen Ehrke.

Rae worked in the Sales Department at New Channel 13 for many years, until she retired. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Huguenot Society. She enjoyed gardening, quilting, baking, cooking and taking walks.

She was predeceased by her husband Winston Laird, son Keith Laird, and sister Marlyn Martiniano. Rae is survived by her children Nedra Liebert (Richard) of Ballston Spa, NY, Neil Laird (Christine) of Phelps, NY, Brian Laird (Rachel) of Union Springs, NY, Donald Laird (Karen Ford) of Eugene, OR and Suzanne Lane of Windsor, VA; grandchildren Glenn Liebert, Matthew Marshall (Heather), Meghan Bard (Jason), Benjamin Laird, Jackson Laird, Nathan Laird, Bradley Laird and Quintin Laird.

Funeral services will be private. Memorial contributions in memory of Rae may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Thomas James Powers, age 84 of Ballston Spa passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, March 3, 2019. Tom was born in Syracuse on December 21, 1934 to Ellinor Pillsworth Powers and James Edward Powers, and raised in Troy.

He was a 1956 graduate of Union College and obtained his Masters from RPI. He started his career as a math professor at Union College and then worked for 30 years as a professor and eventual chair of the math department at Columbia Greene Community College. He retired in 1998 to spend more time with his grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, James E. Powers. Tom is survived by his beloved wife of over 50 years, Judith A. Stemp; his treasured children, Jennifer S. Powers Rutkey and Thomas J. Powers; his cherished grandchildren, Ellie and Izzy Rutkey, and Jonah and Jade Powers Kulpa; many brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Tom loved his family above all else. His happiest times were spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He also loved trains, Burden Lake, storytelling, history, going out to lunch with his family, baseball cards, and hot dogs (especially the mini ones). Tom had a great wit and never failed to make those around him laugh with his dry sense of humor. He will be dearly missed by his family, who will continue to tell his stories and share his memories from generation to generation.

Special loving thanks and heartfelt appreciation to Tom’s hospice nurse, Jamie, and his private nurse, Erika, for all they gave to Tom and his family in his final months.

Per Tom’s wishes, there will be no public wake or funeral. His family will hold a private celebration of his life, which will include plenty of mini hot dogs. In lieu of flowers, donations to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, in Tom’s honor and memory would be greatly appreciated.