Home ›

Obituaries

Bruce H. Relyea

Bruce H. Relyea, 75, passed away on Monday, June 4, 2018 at his home. Born in Schenectady, NY on February 18, 1943, he was the son of August “Gus” Relyea and Elizabeth Dean. He was a Navy veteran serving in Vietnam.

Bruce worked for Laborers Union Local 157 of Schenectady. He was a member of American Legion Post 234 of Ballston Spa and a past member of the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery Honor Guard Association. He enjoyed hunting and camping.

He was predeceased by his father Gus, mother Elizabeth, son Kenneth and brother Allan. Bruce is survived by his longtime companion Debbie Bouchard and her children Michelle Theriault, Mark Bouchard and Michael Bouchard (Christine); his daughter Danielle Relyea; grandchildren Kendra Almeida (Gavin), Cortney Relyea, Aubrey Theriault, John Buckley, Maddison Bouchard and Cameron Bouchard; great granddaughter Paige; siblings John Reylea (Linda), Linda Stack (Doug), Sandy Fain and Barbara Alfree; and several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Sunday, June 10 from 4pm to 7pm at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A time of sharing will be held 10am Monday, June 11 at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will follow at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Guest Book
Wayne D. Rupert

Wayne D. Rupert, 85, passed away on Friday, June 1, 2018. Born in Ford Cliff, Pennsylvania on February 25, 1933, he was the son of Floy and Isabelle Rupert. He served in the US Air Force and moved to this area in 1973.

Wayne was a metallurgist for Allegheny Ludlum Steel for thirty years. He enjoyed golfing and gardening. He could often be found tinkering around his home fixing things for anyone who needed a helping hand.

He was predeceased by his parents Floy and Isabelle, wife Georgiann, brothers Arnold and Wendell, and daughter in law Stacey. Wayne is survived by his life partner Irma Slater; children Kenneth Rupert (Kathleen Slusher) of Round Lake, Keith Rupert (Donna Krug) of Schaghticoke and Karen Anderson (Stephen) of Longmeadow, MA; grandchildren Jason Martin, Carolyn Lattimore, Leah Tansky (Joey), Sarah Rupert, Christian Rupert, Addison Rupert, Robert Anderson, Isabelle Anderson and Nathan Anderson; great grandchildren Michaela Martin, Shawn Lattimore and Logan DeRose.

Funeral services will be held 8:30am on Friday, June 8 at Christ Episcopal Church, West High Street, Ballston Spa. Burial with military honors will follow in the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Thursday, June 7 from 6pm to 8pm at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa.

Memorial contributions in memory of Wayne may be made to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org or American Macular Degeneration Foundation at www.macular.org

Guest Book
Wilbur C. Kinns

Wilbur C. Kinns, 95, passed away at Saratoga Hospital on Friday, June 1, 2018. Born in Ballston, May 7, 1923, Wilbur was the son of the late Merton and Etta Kinns. Wilbur and his late wife, Ruth, owned and operated Kinns’ Auto Service in Ballston Spa for 30 years. After retiring in 1978, Wilbur and Ruth split their time between their residences in New York and Florida until 2013, after which Wilbur stayed year-round at his home in Malta. Wilbur stayed active in his Malta community, where he had many friends, right up until his passing.

Wilbur served honorably in the United States Army Air Corps from 1943-1946. On returning from duty he began his career repairing and servicing automobiles. Wilbur was known throughout the community as an upstanding business owner; one who took pride in providing the best service in a cost effective and timely manner. He enjoyed and took pride in being a longstanding member of Lions Club International and in 1964-65 he served as president of the Ballston Spa Lions Club. He was extremely honored at becoming a Lions Club International Melvin Jones Fellow in 2015. He was a life-long member of Ballston Center Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church and a former board member of Briggs Cemetery Association.

Wilbur was predeceased by his wife Ruth, and his sisters Bea, Reba and Pearl. He is survived by his daughters Joyce (Lou) D’Ambrosi and Judy (Noel) Beninati, his grandchildren Steven (Heather) D’Ambrosi, Michael D’Ambrosi and Genevieve (Maria) Beninati, a great grandson Parker D’Ambrosi, his sister-in-law Shirley A. Hayes and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Saturday, June 9, 2018 at Armer Funeral Home, Inc, 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. Burial will follow in Briggs Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, June 8 from 4-7 PM at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions in memory of Wilbur may be made to Briggs Cemetery Association, 32 Glenmore Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Guest Book
David L. Maynard

David Maynard died on May 29 following a valiant struggle with younger onset Alzheimer’s Disease. He was 65. Born on March 14, 1953, the son of Paul F. Maynard and Patricia Livingston, he was raised in Brooklyn, New York, attended New York City public schools and New York University. David worked as a computer programmer for more than 20 years first on Wall Street and then for companies and consulting firms in the Capital Region. He later worked for more than 10 years as a piano technician for Clarke Music in Latham and as a solo technician.

While computer programming and piano tech work were his “day jobs”, David’s true avocation was always music. In his youth he played in numerous bands in NYC and toured the United States with the New York Rubber Rock band in the mid-1970s. David relocated to the Capital Region in 1987 and played and recorded with various groups including Medusa Pleasureworks and the Weasels. From the mid-1990s forward, he appeared in venues in the Capital Region as a classical and jazz guitarist. He produced three CDs - Song for My Father, Nylon and Nails and Pulling Strings. David was an amateur watercolorist and photographer, as well as an avid cyclist and reader of nonfiction.

David will be remembered by his family and many friends for his unique combination of intelligence and skill, his humor, infectious laugh, tremendous joie de vivre and big heart. We will also never again encounter such an entertaining food and coffee snob or committed Luddite.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Christine M. Fitzpatrick of Ballston Spa; his mother, Patricia Livingston of St. Petersburg Florida; his brother, Philip E. Maynard of Media PA; and his step-mother Drora Pershing Maynard of Redwood City, CA. In addition, David is survived and will be missed by numerous in-laws, step-siblings, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews in the Fitzpatrick, Maynard, King and Pershing families.

The Fitzpatrick/Maynard family would like to thank the staff of the A2 Unit at Saratoga Center for Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing in Ballston Spa for the care and compassion extended to David during his time with them.

A memorial service for David will be held in July, date and time to be named. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in David’s memory to: Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern NY, 4 Pine West Plaza, Suite 405, Albany, NY 12205, www.alz.org/northeasternny. Kindly direct your donation toward Alzheimer’s research.

Guest Book
Reita M. Wojtowecz

Reita M. Wojtowecz, 88, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2018 at her home in Woodbine, Georgia, with her loving family Bonnie and Mark by her side, and the hospice staff who became her family, Susan, Brenda, Kaye, Deena and Pastor Pat. Our Lord received her with open arms in heaven.

Born in Ballston Spa, NY on September 8, 1929, she was the daughter of Gilbert and Florence Ingraham. Reita raised seven children and worked full time for many years at Espey Manufacturing and Electronics Corp in Saratoga Springs as secretary to Kenny King and later she was promoted to Corporate Personnel Manager until her retirement.

After her retirement she enjoyed day trips, traveling and working daily on her cross stitch making gifts for friends and family to cherish. Her needle work was meticulous and beautiful. Reita also volunteered at the Oneida Hospital three days a week alongside her daughter Bonnie who she inspired and encouraged to become a nurse.

She was predeceased by her parents Gilbert and Florence, her husband Walter, son Timothy and her siblings Gordon Ingraham and Marion Baker.

Reita is survived by her children Carol Buckley of Apopka, FL. Gary Wojtowecz of Ballston Spa, NY, Bonnie Richards of Woodbine, GA, Jeanne Honadel of Woodbine, GA. Michael Wojtowecz of Ballston Spa, NY and Ronald Wojtowecz of Rock City Falls, NY; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She enjoyed five generations of her family.

Reita was our rock. She loved and cared for each and every one of us and made many sacrifices for her family. She will be greatly missed and her memory will always be cherished.

A graveside service will be held 11am Friday, June 22 at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Church Avenue (Route 50), Ballston Spa, where she will rest with her husband and son. Following the service all our welcome to a celebration of her life at the home of her beloved granddaughter Lynn "Scotti" Jensen, 42 Waterbury Street, Saratoga Springs.

Memorial contributions in memory of Reita may be made to Hospice of the Golden Isles, 1692 Glynco Parkway, Brunswick, GA 31525.

Guest Book
Estella R. Weatherill

Estella R. Weatherill "Sally", 96, passed away on Friday, May 25, 2018. Born in Clifton Park, NY on January 5, 1922, she was the daughter of Elvin and Mary Elsie Harris.

Sally enjoyed working in her garden and camping with her family. She also enjoyed quilting, painting and sewing. She was a member of the Jonesville United Methodist Church.

She was predeceased by her husband Gordon, and her sisters Wretha Miller, Catherine Freemire and Alta Keeler. Sally is survived by her children Kevin Weatherill of Ballston Lake, Joy Weatherill (Thomas Anderson) of New Hope, PA and Holly Weatherill of Ballston Lake; granddaughter Claire Anderson of Norristown, PA , and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 2pm Tuesday, May 29 at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A calling hour will precede the service from 1pm to 2pm. Burial will follow in Hudson View Cemetery, Mechanicville.

Memorial contributions in memory of Estella may be made to the Jonesville United Methodist Church or the National Wildlife Foundation.

Guest Book
Martha S. Knuth

Martha S. Knuth, 96, passed away on May 24, 2018. Martha will always be remembered as a dedicated, well-loved teacher. Her teaching career spanned 40 years from Michigan to Ballston Spa to Skidmore. She was an active, enthusiastic member of several community and church organizations.

Martha was born in Marquette, MI on August 6, 1921, the daughter of Oscar and Lempi Siekkinen. Martha was predeceased by her parents, her brother, George and his wife Eileen. Her husband, Everett, passed away on their 36th wedding anniversary.

Martha is survived by her children; Greg Knuth (Colleen) of Cape Vincent, NY and Connie Knuth (Larry Clay) of Carbondale, CO; her grandchildren; Brian Knuth (Wanda) of Glen Allen, VA and Tory Martell (Scott) of Ballston Spa, NY; great grandchildren Kayla, Lydia and Declan.

A calling hour will be held from 4pm to 5pm on Monday, June 18 at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A Remembrance of her Life will follow at 5 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local library in Martha’s name.

Guest Book
Jean M. Davis

Jean M. (Maguire) Davis, 80, passed away on May 23, 2018. Jean is survived by her husband John and their children, Michael Davis (Annemarie), David Davis, Kimberly Race (Jeffrey) and Steven Davis; and two granddaughters.

A memorial celebration of Jean’s life will be held 10 am Tuesday, May 29 at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road. Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Jean may be made to the Providence Volunteer Ambulance Corp, 7160 Fish House Rd, Galway, NY 12074.

Guest Book
Richard E. Wettlaufer

Richard E. Wettlaufer, 87, passed away on Sunday, May 20, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family. Born in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, on December 17, 1930, he was the son of J. Maynard and Margaret Pettee Wettlaufer. He served in the US Air Force and was a veteran of the Korean War.

Richard was an educator, teaching art in the Stimson Middle School in South Huntington, Long Island for 30 years, retiring in 1986. He was a member of Franklin Lodge #22 F&AM and the Lions Club.

Richard enjoyed golfing, coaching tennis, music, photography and traveling. He was an animal lover and treasured the time he spent with his family.

Richard is survived by his wife Jeanne, children Todd Wettlaufer of Malta, and Janine Lasker (David) of Glenville; brother George Wettlaufer (Nancy) of Osprey, Florida; brother in law Theodore Rupracht of Central Square; and his beloved dog Maxi.

Funeral services with military honors will be held 1pm Thursday, May 24 at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital or your local animal shelter.

Guest Book
Michael A. Whelan

Michael Albert Whelan of Rock City Falls, NY passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 19, 2018 at the age of 29.

Mike was born to Michael F. Whelan and Maureen (Stunzi) Santiago at Samaritan Hospital in Troy, NY on May 1st, 1989. He grew up in his family home in Rock City Falls and attended school in Ballston Spa, NY. He also spent a great deal of time with his family in Saranac Lake, NY and Fort Myers, Florida.

Mike was an adventurer who loved to camp in the Adirondacks and at outdoor music festivals. He enjoyed his snowmobile, skateboard, playing pickup hockey games and all things Orlando. His greatest love was his daughter, Amelia. His biggest passion, however, was music. He was a natural musician and became known for being able to play anything on acoustic or lead electric guitar by ear and taught himself the drums. Mike was a member of several bands and became a jam band favorite to sit in with many local musicians in the Saratoga Springs area. He wrote beautiful lyrics, recorded his music and made many videos to entertain or share emotion with his friends.

Mikey’s nickname was Dubz from his many friends. He considered them his family and happily played the clown, the organizer and the frontman for their adventures. His laughter was contagious and will be remembered by all with love.

Michael is survived by Amelia, his 14 month old daughter; his mother, Maureen Stunzi Santiago of Saranac Lake; sister Erica Whelan of Saratoga Springs and Saranac Lake; sister Dominique Santiago and brother Raymond Santiago of Saranac Lake; grandmother Barbara (Wallace) Stunzi and step-grandmother Linda (Van Eps) Santiago, aunts Michele Whelan, Lisa (Whelan) Gatus, and Mary (Stunzi) Waterson; uncles Peter Whelan and George Waterson; 1st cousins Josh and Chelsea Tremblay, Peter (Marv) and Nicole (Whelan) Ayotte, and Ryan and Bailey Gatus. Michael is preceded in death by his father, Michael F. Whelan, his paternal grandparents Peter Whelan, Sr., Larraine (Colvin) Downs, Jack Downs and his maternal grandfather Albert Stunzi.

Calling hours will be held at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street in Ballston Spa on Thursday, May 24, 2018 from 3 pm to 5 pm with a memorial service immediately following at 5 pm.

Guest Book
Frances D. Whittaker

Frances D. Whittaker, 92, passed away on May 4, 2018 at Wesley Health Care Center after a brief illness. Born September 2, 1925 in Dartmouth, MA, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Gina (Costa) Derossi.

A native of Dartmouth, MA, Frances was a graduate of Dartmouth High School and Kinyon Business School and was also a member of the Smith Mills Congregational Church there. She has resided in Malta with her family for the last 30 years.

In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her husband, Uel P. Whittaker. She is survived by her children, Diane Lange and her husband, Clifford of Gansevoort, NY and Dennis Whittaker of Interlachen, FL; her grandchildren, Tammy Melo and her husband Frank of Fall River, MA and James Lange of Gansevoort, NY; and her great grandchildren, Katerina, Michael and Nicholas Melo of Fall River, MA.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.

The family wishes to thank the staff on 3 Victoria and 5 Springs at Wesley Health Care Center for the wonderful care and comfort provided to Frances and her family.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Northeast Association of the Blind or to Nick’s Fight to be Healed.

Guest Book
Bernard A. Heald

Bernard (“Bernie”) Allyn Heald, 77, of Ballston Spa, passed away at his home with his family on May 2, 2018. Bernie was born in Farmington, Maine on June 28, 1940, son of Bernard and Helen Heald. Bernie was a graduate of Strong High School and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Maine at Orono. Bernie married his wife, Cathy, also of Maine, and they moved to Saratoga County where Bernie had a 20-year career working as a radiological health consultant for the Health Department of the State of New York. Bernie later worked as the Building Inspector for the Town of Malta until his retirement. Throughout his life, Bernie was a builder – he designed and constructed his home in Malta – and he helped many neighbors and friends in his community with building projects.

Bernie was a former member of the Malta Ridge Fire Company and at one time also served as the president of that organization. As an avid stock car fan and member of the New York State Stock Car Association, Bernie enjoyed working at the Albany-Saratoga Speedway in Malta. Over the years, Bernie helped with multiple projects at Albany-Saratoga Speedway and held various positions such as Handicapper, Scorer, Pit Steward and Assistant Race Director. All of the people in Bernie’s racing family were very special to him and the time he spent with them added greatly to the richness of his life. Bernie was also a member of the Mason’s Blue Mountain Lodge of Philips, Maine. Bernie loved being with his family in Maine, attending college basketball games, and doing jigsaw puzzles.

Bernie was predeceased by both of his parents. He is survived by his wife, Cathy, as well as by his three children Allyn Heald , Scott Heald, Zoe Peek and her husband Kenneth Peek, and Bernie’s grandson, Joshua Heald. Bernie had no siblings but was blessed to have his wife Cathy’s many brothers and sisters whom he loved and had known since they were children.

Thank you to Dr. Edward Liebers and his staff at Saratoga Oncology for their care and compassion. Dr. Liebers and his wonderful staff became almost like family to Bernie. A special thank you to Saratoga Community Hospice and Arlene and Jamie who were angels on earth through their comforting care and concern.

A celebration of Bernie’s life will be held on Sunday, June 24, 2018 at the Albany-Saratoga Speedway in Malta from 1 to 6 PM and will include a ceremony at 2 PM. Burial will take place during the summer at Porter Lake in New Vineyard, Maine at the family camp which is “heaven on earth.”

Memorial contributions may be made to The Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or to the Malta Ridge Fire Company, 5 Hearn Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020.

Guest Book
Lois A. Harper

Lois A. Harper, 84, passed away on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Ballston Spa, NY on January 15, 1934, she was the daughter of Arthur and Pauline Sherwood.

Lois was a graduate of Ballston Spa High School. After graduation she worked as a switchboard operator for NY Telephone. She later worked as a seamstress in the local factory. Lois enjoyed spending time with her family and was especially devoted to her grandchildren. She loved her cats and dogs.

She was predeceased by her husband Richard, and her siblings Gerald Sherwood, Aurelia Haskell and Arthur Sherwood. Lois is survived by her daughters Pamela Kissinger (Keith) of Ballston Spa and Sharon Kirkpatrick (John) of Saratoga Springs; seven grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, May 5 from 10 am to 12 noon at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A service will be held at 12 noon. Burial will follow in the Ballston Spa Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in memory of Lois may be made to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter, 6010 County Farm Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020.

Guest Book
Vyrl A. Agnew

Vyrl A. “Nickie” Agnew, 76, passed away on Friday, April 27, 2018. Born in Ballston Spa, NY on April 1, 1942, she was the daughter of John and Catherine Agnew.

Nickie liked crocheting and over the years she bowled in several local leagues. She enjoyed playing a friendly game of cards with her neighbors.

She was predeceased by her parents John and Catherine Agnew, and her brothers Malcolm, Ronald and Robert Agnew. Nickie is survived by her brother John A. Agnew of Providence, sister Rose A. Pratt of Saratoga Springs; several nieces and nephews; and her caregiver and best friend Polly Goldfarb.

A private family service will be held. Memorial contributions in memory of Vyrl may be made to the American Lung Association.

Guest Book
George Cietek, Jr.

George Cietek, Jr, 76, passed away on Sunday, April 15, 2018. Born in Troy, NY on June 14, 1941, he was the son of George and Dalbina Cietek. He proudly served in the US Army and the US Air Force where he was a recipient of several service medals.

George was a warehouse manager for JC Penney for several years. George and his wife Sandra traveled all over the world together. They loved playing the slot machines at Atlantic City and the Saratoga Racino.

He was predeceased by his wife Sandra and their son Gregory, and his brother Thomas Cietek. George is survived by his grandchildren Anthony Cietek and Katie Cietek; siblings Kathy Kalbus (Gil), Pat O’Leary (Kim) and Maureen Ingraham (Ed); several nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog Minnie.

Funeral services will military honors will be held 1:00 pm on Tuesday, April 24, 2018 at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville.

Memorial contributions in memory of George may be made to the American Heart Association.

The family would like to thank George’s neighbor Kelly for the years of friendship and support she gave to George and Sandra.

Guest Book
Mary VanHeusen

Mary VanHeusen, 94, passed away on Sunday, April 15, 2018. Born in Perth Center, NY on August 15, 1923, she was the daughter of Albert and Harriett Kochman.

Mary enjoyed gardening and taking care of her home. She made delicious apple pie which her family loved. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family especially her grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband Lloyd, daughter Gail, granddaughter Kathy, and sisters Nellie Cetnar, Betty Caravella and Ann Szymczak. Mary is survived by her daughter Carol Manley; grandchildren Kevin Manley (Julie), Kristine Manley, and Kelly Lion; great grandchildren Mackenzie, Nicholas, Derek, and Dylan; sisters Stella Boris and Ceil Kosiba; and several nieces and nephews.

A private family service will be held.

Online remembrances may be made at www.armerfuneralhome.com

Guest Book
Elizabeth L. Merrill

Elizabeth L. Merrill, 92, passed away on Thursday, April 12, 2018. Born in Saratoga Springs, NY on December 28, 1925, she was the daughter of Clarence and Leila Lasher.

On June 27, 1943, she married Jesse H. Merrill; they would have celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary this June. They raised their family in Ballston Spa and moved to Georgia in 2002 to live with their son David and his wife Carolyn.

Peggy was a people person and made friends with everyone she met. She was a mom to all the Navy men that rented their home on South Street in Ballston Spa. She loved playing cards with her husband Jesse and their friends. She enjoyed reading Family Circle and Woman’s Day magazines from cover to cover. Peggy’s greatest joy was the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, and she treasured the memories she made with them.

She was predeceased by her parents Clarence and Leila Lasher, sisters Marienne Koval and Janice Agnew, and great grandson Dillan Jesse Peacock.

Peggy is survived by her husband Jesse and their children, Donna Perkins and her husband Richard of Ballston Spa, David Merrill and his wife Carolyn of Jonesboro, GA, Rev. Debra Peacock and her dear friend Carol Finke of Argyle, and Darren Merrill and his wife Jane of Fayetteville, GA; grandchildren Susan Martin (Brian), Shari Desrosier (Kevin), Scott Perkins (Nicole), Stephen Perkins, Corey Merrill (Jody), Kier Palmer (James) Jesse Merrill, III (Laura Glass) and Stacey Leombruno (Mark); ten great grandchildren, four great great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Thursday, April 19 from 12pm to 1pm at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A service will be held at 1pm. Burial will follow in Ballston Spa Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in memory of Peggy may be made to Harbor Grace Hospice, 320 Parkway Dr. 4th Floor, Atlanta, GA 30312.

Guest Book
Albert G. Armstrong

Albert G. Armstrong, 89, passed away on Thursday, April 12, 2018. Born in Saco, Maine on September 11, 1928, he was the son of Philip and Germaine Armstrong. He moved to New York, where he met and married his wife Laura E. Curtiss in February of 1950. He served in the United States Marine Corp.

Al was an assembler of small engines for General Electric Co in Schenectady, retiring after 44 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and all outdoor activities. He attended the Schenectady First Church of the Nazarene.

He was predeceased by his siblings Philip, Doug, Mary and Frank. Al is survived by his wife Laura and their daughters Jane Esterly (James) and Carolyn Berrian (David); grandchildren Amanda Burgess (Bernard), Michael Berrian (Samantha), Elizabeth Berrian, Rachel Harrison (Ridgely) and Sean Esterly (Sasha); great grandchildren Ruby, Ivan, Cora, Grace, Hayden, Claire and Hudson; and several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service 10am Thursday, April 19 at the Schenectady First Church of the Nazarene, 2535 Consaul Road, Schenectady.

Al will be laid to rest at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, with a private family service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Schenectady First Church of the Nazarene.

Guest Book
Lee J. Forshey

Lee J. Forshey, 50, passed away on Monday, April 9, 2018, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Saratoga Springs, NY on October 10, 1967. He was a graduate of Ballston Spa High School and SUNY Geneseo.

Lee lived in Seattle, Washington for close to thirty years. He enjoyed spending time with his numerous friends in Seattle and considered many of them his family. He cherished his trips back home to Ballston Spa to visit his family and friends.

Lee was a career coach for Pacific Associates in Seattle. He helped his clients obtain employment by writing resumes, scheduling interviews and securing employment within a short period of time. He was very proud of his 90% success rate of finding employment for his clients. Prior to working at Pacific Associates, Lee worked in the mental health field.

Lee was an avid hiker, photographer and traveler. He traveled to Africa, Costa Rica and Australia over the last several years.

Lee is survived by his mother Donna Hatley, father John Forshey; brothers John Forshey, Jr and his wife Patti; and Paul Forshey and his wife Guinevere; nephews Adam, Paxton and Owen; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, April 16 from 10 am to 11am at Christ Episcopal Church, West High Street, Ballston Spa. A service will follow at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice, 295 Valley View Blvd., Rensselaer, NY 12144.

The family would like to thank everyone who contributed to Lee’s Go Fund Me page.

Guest Book
Bryan Jeffrey Diggins

Bryan Jeffrey Diggins
The Man, The Myth, The Legend

Bryan left us the afternoon of April 09, 2018 taken from us too soon at the age of 58. Like any great myth or legend, he will never be forgotten. To all his friends and family, we would ask as he would want us to, please celebrate the life he lived and not the life he left behind.

You may have known him by any of his numerous aliases: Digger Dog, Digger, Diggie, Digs, Dead Eye Digger, The Hobbit, The Horse, GREAT Uncle Bryan or his famous tag lines, “Call me whatever you want just not late for dinner”, “my middle name is Jef-FRE-y for a reason, if it’s FREE it’s for me”, “I resemble that remark” or simply Bryan.

Bryan served proudly in the US Navy as a Gunners Mate in the early 1980’s, aboard USS Fort Snelling. He did multiple tours and was active during the conflicts at Beirut and Lebanon. He achieved both Bluenose status (crossed the arctic circle) and Shellback status two times over (crossed the equator). After Honorable Discharge from the Navy, he worked for twenty four years as a chemical technician at Schenectady Chemical, from which he retired. Digger currently enjoyed his part time job in the produce department at Hannaford where his “regulars” sought him out and were always happy to see him. He earned many free lunches because of his accolades for his customer service. He also spent a summer as a rodeo clown, something he was happy to check off his bucket list.

Bryan lived life at its fullest, had a story for every situation, an answer to any question, and would make you laugh even at times when you could hardly understand what he said and he was always the life of any party. He gave true credence to the phrase, “I know a guy”. “You got a pest problem call my nephew Jay, need something built call Andy or Pete Champagne, something else fixed call Brandon Uline.” His contact list was endless. He loved to help everyone. Of course, you may owe him a favor for it but fair enough.

He loved to volunteer, camp with Mary and Schuyler, hang out at the Albany-Saratoga Speedway, Cocktails at the White House with his boys, hang out with Adam and Jay at the Lake George Car Show (DODGE DART), and visit Aunt Joan for words of wisdom. He took daily “laps” around Ballston Spa and Milton to check in on his “bro’s” and other friends. He enjoyed tending to his lawn and landscaping, and took great pride in his vegetable garden. He was eager to share his bounty with many, many friends and neighbors. He loved and cherished his stepdaughter Schuyler and was especially proud of her academic accomplishments.

Bryan has played a huge role in so many of our lives in so many different ways, the memories are endless.

He is a brother, partner, uncle, great uncle and always a friend. He is kind and compassionate to everyone. He had a bigger than life personality and aura that you could not help be drawn to.

Bryan is predeceased by his loving parents John and Margaret Diggins.

Bryan is survived by his siblings John and Mickey Diggins, Linda and Dennis LaQue, Barb and Jan Lang, Kelly Diggins and Kurt Radz, Karen and Mitch Vanweerd, Robert and Rhonda Diggins, Holly and Arthur McWain; aunts Joan Nowhitney and Marion Hayes; nieces and nephews Anne, Adam, Jason, Matt, Nathan, Eric; great niece and nephews Zack, Jayde, Anthony, Cierra, Brandon, Eliza, William, Austin, Shane, Tyler; partner and best friend for life, Mary Arnold, Mommasu; stepdaughter Schuyler Arnold; Partner in Crime and shadow, Duke (because he would keep all of Bryan’s secrets safe, just wag his tail and bark); AND many many FRIENDS.

Funeral services will be held 10am Friday, April 13 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 Thursday, April 12 from 4pm to 7pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Veterans Foundation, https://nvf.org/veterans-donations/ or St Mary’s School, Thompson Street, Ballston Spa.

Celebrate his life with us at the VFW on E North Street, Ballston Spa on Saturday 04/14/18 @ 2:00 pm

Guest Book
Francis "Frank" Taylor, Jr.

Francis “Frank” Taylor Jr., 76, of Ballston Spa, passed away Thursday, March 29, 2018. Frank is survived by his wife Penny of 50 years, daughters Rachel and Laura, and his granddaughters Kate, Amy and Molly. Frank was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to all.

Frank was an Army veteran and proudly worked at the Watervliet Arsenal for 40+ years until he retired in 2015. He loved hunting, fishing and watching FOX News. He enjoyed sports, especially ice hockey, NASCAR, baseball, golf and football. He could regularly be found working on crossword puzzles while sitting on his porch.

A special thank you to all the staff at Saratoga Hospital D Unit for their loving care and support.

A celebration of life gathering will be held from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa on Tuesday, April 3rd.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter to honor Frank’s love of animals.

Guest Book
Melissa G. Moore

Melissa G. Moore, 43, passed away on Wednesday, March 28, 2018. Born in Saratoga Springs, NY on August 16, 1974, she was the daughter of Ronald and Joan Moore. She was a graduate of Ballston Spa High School and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from the College of St. Rose.

Melissa was a probation officer for the Saratoga County Probation Department for 19 years. She enjoyed spending time at the ocean, working in her flower gardens and baking. Her greatest joy was her family and the time she spent with them.

She was predeceased by her brother Joe Moore. Melissa is survived by her children Jacob Moore and Madelyn Moczydlowsky; parents Joan and Ronald Moore; sisters Lenae Pohl (Andrew) and Rebecca Lloyd (Jeffrey); nephews Drew, Joe, Tim and Aidan, and niece Alexandria.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, March 31 from 1pm to 5pm at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A private family service will be held.

Memorial contributions in memory of Melissa may be made to Ronald McDonald House, 139 South Lake Ave. Albany, NY 12208 or Saratoga Co Animal Shelter, 6010 County Farm Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020.

Guest Book
Patricia L. Feulner

Patricia L. Feulner, 82, passed away on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 with her loving family by her side. “Trish” as she liked to be called, was born in Schenectady, NY on May 22, 1935.

Trish worked for the Ballston Spa School District for over 25 years. She had a passion for the English language and delighted in correcting her children and grandchildren’s grammar. She was an avid game player; her favorites included Hand and Foot, Bingo and Chickenfoot Dominos. Her real passion was Bridge, where she was very close to attaining Masters level status. She was a member of the American Contract Bridge League. (ACBL)

Trish had many friends who cared for her deeply and enjoyed her company.

She was predeceased by her parents, Thomas J. Callahan and Evelyn Gorham Callahan, and her sisters Andra DeMartino and Linda Lauderback. Patricia is survived by her loving daughters Deborah L. Stange (James), Deneen L. Hornberger (Anthony Laiacona) and Denise L. Provost (James); grandchildren Melissa Widener (Jay), Katie Hollar (Chris) and Taylor Provost; sister Eileen Kilrain (John), four great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Wednesday, April 4, from 4pm to 6pm at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A time of sharing will begin at 6pm.

Memorial contributions in memory of Patricia may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Guest Book
Catherine E. Pityinger

Catherine Elizabeth Pityinger went home to be with the Lord on Palm Sunday, March 25, 2018. She was born in Chester, NY on February 12, 1922 to Anna and Frederick Brautigam. She grew up in Jersey City, NJ and eventually moved to Malta, NY.

She was married to Stephen Pityinger on December 20, 1941. They were happily married for 62 years before Stephen passed away. They were the parents of four children.

Catherine worked as a seamstress in factories specializing in children’s apparel in Jersey City and Newark. Sewing was her passion and she loved making clothing for her children, grandchildren, and their assorted dolls. She was known for her fabric beaded necklaces, which she crafted for many far and wide. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles, word searches, and watching the Hallmark channel.

Catherine was a wonderful loving and giving Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother. She is survived by her four children, Diane Greenleaf and her husband Earl of Malta, NY, Brenda Balma and her husband Dennis of Newton, NJ, Stephen Pityinger and his wife Helen of Lyndhurst, NJ and Roy Pityinger and his wife Lana of Kearny, NJ; 12 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.

She was a member of Saratoga Chapel and loved her church family.

A celebration of Catherine’s life will be held on Saturday, April 21 at 11am at Saratoga Chapel, 359 Eastline Road, Ballston Lake. Memorial contributions in memory of Catherine may be made to Saratoga Chapel.

Guest Book
Frank A. "Red" Murray, Jr.

Frank A. “Red” Murray, Jr. died March 23, 2018 after a long illness. He was born on November 17, 1929, in Winchendon, Massachusetts.

He was a proud veteran enlisting in the United States Navy in 1948 and retired after 20 years as a Chief Petty Officer in 1968. He was a Yeomen, qualified to wear dolphins insignia in the submarine service; crewmen on USS Cubera, USS Medragill, USS Treda and USS Atule all in the Atlantic fleet.

After leaving the Navy he started the Red Murray Enterprises Insurance Company and worked there until his second retirement in 2006. He was an avid golfer for many years. He and Lucille loved to travel especially to Charleston, SC.

Red was the son of the late Ella and Frank Murray, Sr. He was predeceased by his siblings Mary (Arthur) Beane and Kathy Kendall. He is survived by his siblings Gertrude (late Joe) Szymcik, JoAnne (late Dave) Pandiscio, Alice (Charles “Skip”) Hodges and brother in law Bob Kendall.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Lucille (Ott), his son Kevin (Barbara), daughters Kathleen, Marlene (Joseph), Alison, Susanne (Efrain), Loretta (late Kevin), and his son Stuart (Julie); grandchildren Ryan (Rachael), Kelly (Brian), Phillip (Ashli), Meredith, Emily, Duncan, Nicholas, Vincent and Tessa; and his great grandson Joseph.

The family would like to thank all the caring staff at Baptist Health and Nursing Facility in Scotia, NY.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, March 27, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 E. High St, Ballston Spa, NY. Funeral will be held Wednesday, March 28, at 9:00am at St. Mary’s Church, 167 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa, NY, where Red and Lucille were communicants. Interment will be held at Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Guest Book
Shelley Lynn Merchant-Myers

Shelley Lynn Merchant-Myers, 55 passed away on Sunday, March 25, 2018 at Winter Haven Hospital in Florida surrounded by family and loved ones. She was born in Glens Falls Hospital on August 20, 1962.

Shelley was an amazing wife to David Arthur Myers Jr. for 37 wonderful years. Together they had five children, David Arthur Myers III, Garry Charles Myers, Ryan Andrew Myers, Sharron Lynn Myers, and Elizabeth Rachel Myers. She was also the World's Greatest Grandmother to two grandchildren Zachary Thomas Myers (13), and Skylar Lynn Myers (7 months) who will miss her with all their heart and souls. Her parents Kenneth Garry Merchant Sr and Sharron Lynn Merchant will miss her so much. Kenneth Garry Merchant Jr (her brother) will miss his older sister, as will his two children Nadia Rae Merchant and Kai Joseph Merchant.

Shelley became an RN in 1992. She retired as a registered nurse from Hale Creek Correctional Facility and became a full time mother. Shelley, with husband David and youngest daughter Elizabeth moved to Winter Haven, FL five years ago from Saratoga Springs, NY.

Not only was she a wife, a mother, a grandmother, but a friend to all that met her. She would take the shirt off her back and the last dollar she had in her pocket for anyone who asked for it because she knew it would brighten their day.

Shelley enjoyed gardening, flowers and watching birds and butterflies that roamed her gardens. She liked anything Star Trek, all Disney, and every Peanut character. She was an amazing woman and will surely be missed.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Thursday, April 5, 2018 from 5pm to 7pm at Armer Funeral Home, Inc., 39 East High Street, Ballston Spa. A service will be held at 7pm, where after she will be cremated.

If you would like to donate to help the family with the cost of the services please visit https://www.gofundme.com/rz9kq6-arrangements-for-my-mom or see David Myers Jr. or Ryan Myers at the service above or checks/money to 2 Vincek Lane, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Thank you everyone for your love and support The Myers’ Family.

Guest Book
John Gregory Fox, II

With his bright, literary mind, John Fox saw the humor in life and could make anyone laugh. He died in the Milton home where he grew up. He was 52.

Mr. Fox was a natural storyteller with a boyish laugh, unafraid of crudeness and often pulling from the deep well of his memory. One of his earliest memories was of his mother lying by him as he tried sleeping off a fever. He awoke feeling better and stretched out his hand toward her through the bars of his crib. The two had a close relationship throughout her life.

“The way his mind worked was amazing,” said his brother, Michael Fox. “He could just see something… and all of a sudden he’d just come up with this whole repertoire about life in that situation. He just had this funny wit about him. He’d just make my mother laugh to pieces.”

Mr. Fox was attracted to beauty and creativity. He took up gardening, loved flowers, drank in fiction, acted in plays, and enjoyed black-and-white photography. Working as a restaurant waiter throughout his life, he was fascinated by food and reflected in his home the kitchen tools and tips he picked up from chefs. For a family feast, he once aged beef in his garage. Instead of slippers, he wore kitchen clogs around the house.

He worked at many restaurants in the Capital Region — among them Glen Sanders Mansion in Schenectady and Hall of Springs in Saratoga — as well as in San Diego, California, where he lived most his adult life.

When Mr. Fox was a child, the family spent summers in St. Lawrence County where his parents owned a pair of former dairy farms. As a small boy, he enlisted to help in the kitchen of his grandmother, who was the village baker in Richville, New York. She bought him a small mixer for Christmas.

The farm in later years hosted family reunions, where campfires were his stage. He would embellish shared stories and use caricatured voices to make relatives laugh at themselves.

“He was on, so to speak,” said his sister Sheila Sullivan. “He was the entertainer of the group.”

He took acting very seriously from middle school through college, and he played a range of dramatic parts, said Wendy Guida, a friend since they met at orientation at the University of Albany. Among his roles were Chief Bromden in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” Malvolio in Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” and Orestes in the “Oresteia.”

Mr. Fox was born in Wisconsin on April 25, 1965, the youngest of three siblings, to parents Audrey (née Wood) and John Fox. The family moved back to New York to be near relatives and for his father’s work as an electrician.

He graduated from Ballston Spa High School in 1983. He earned associate degrees in liberal arts and computer information science from San Diego City College and a bachelor of arts degree from San Diego State University. In later years, he took graduate-level courses at the College of Saint Rose to become an English teacher.

John Gregory Fox, II is survived by two siblings, Sheila Sullivan, and her husband Bill Sullivan; and Michael Fox, and his wife Lolly Fox. He is also survived by five nephews, Gregory Fox, Patrick Fox, Nicholas Fox, Vito Iaia, and Marcello Iaia.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on May 11 at St. Peter’s Cemetery, 150 West Ave, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866.

Guest Book
Robert A. Nolan

Robert A. Nolan, 68, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, March 17, 2018. Born in Albany, NY on September 25, 1949, he was the son of John and Rita Nolan.

Bob was a graduate of the College of St. Rose, earning a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He was a designer for General Electric Co in Schenectady for 38 years, retiring in 2005.

Bob’s passion was photography. He enjoyed having cocktails, while relaxing in the hot tub with his family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Rita Nolan, and his brother Dan Nolan. Bob is survived by his wife Janice and their children Dara Storm (Jeff) and Douglas Nolan; grandsons Austin and Jack; brothers Michael Burnetter and James Burnetter; and several nieces and nephews.

At Bobby’s request his body was donated to the Albany Medical College Anatomical Gift Program.

Memorial contributions in memory of Bob can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org

Guest Book
Jeanne Aschmutat

Jeanne Aschmutat, formerly of Ballston Spa, passed away on Sunday, March 25, 2018 in Saratoga Springs, New York at the age of 77. Born in Newburgh, NY on September 18, 1940, she was the daughter of Festus and Mary Beatty.

Jeanne loved reading and gardening, but truly treasured her role as G-ma to her fourteen grandchildren, Johnny and his wife, Jen, Jake, Carys, Brandon, Jamie, Kayla, Ian, Cailey, Josiah, Chelsea, Alaina, Justice, Cambryn, and Judah, and great-grandchild Christopher. She was a devoted member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

She is predeceased by her parents and husband, Manfred H. Aschmutat. Jeanne is survived by her children Jimmy and his wife, Tasha, of Corpus Christi, Texas, Lisa and her husband, John, of Saratoga Springs, NY, Erich and his wife, Jennifer, of Porter Corners, NY, and Bobby and his wife, Kelley, of Galway, NY, her siblings Nancy, Tom, Joanne, and John, and all her grandchildren.

Friends and family are invited to call on Wednesday, March 28 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Armer Funeral Home, Inc. Funeral services will be held 9 a.m. Thursday, March 29, at the funeral home.

Guest Book
Jacqueline C. Morrisey

Jacqueline C. (Jackie) Morrisey, formerly of Ballston Spa, passed away on March 17, 2018 in Saratoga Springs, NY at the age of 81.

She was born in Ticonderoga, NY and was the daughter of Raymond Davis and Edna (Thatcher) Davis.

Jackie was employed by the Ballston Spa Central School District as a Teaching Assistant for 25 years. Following her retirement, she volunteered at Saratoga Hospital and was recognized for over 8,590 hours of service to that facility. She also was a blood services volunteer with the Adirondack Saratoga Chapter of The American Red Cross and an elections monitor.

She was predeceased by her husband, Arthur. Jackie is survived by her daughter, Michelle (Robert) Bartsch of California, MD; son Michael (Marcilyn) Morrisey of Canandaigua, NY; grandchildren Timothy Bartsch of California, MD, Courtney Bartsch of Austin, TX and Spencer Tomasini of Warwick, RI. She is also survived by her sister, Elizabeth Wendell of Ticonderoga, NY, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 9am Monday, March 26 at St. Mary’s Church, Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa, where a mass of Christian burial will be celebrated. Burial will follow in the Ballston Spa Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank the relatives, friends and neighbors who helped to care for her in her later years. They also would like to thank the staff of the Wesley Health Care Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Community Emergency Corp or St. Mary’s Church would be appreciated.

Guest Book