DUANESBURG — Stuart Allen Devenpeck, a lifelong resident of the area and proprietor of a local tavern, died on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017. He was 45.

“He was very big-hearted,” said his wife, Joyce Fix-Devenpeck. “Very big-hearted and generous.”

Born on Sept. 10, 1971, Mr. Devenpeck, know by many as Stu or Stewie, grew up in Altamont and attended Schalmont High School, keeping his childhood friendships close to him throughout his life.

“Friendships were very important to him,” said his wife.

Mr. Devenpeck graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business from Siena College in 1993. He married Joyce Fix on April 1, 2005.

Mr. Devenpeck’s first business was the the Quaker Inn, but he is best known as the long-time owner of the Hillview Tavern in Duanesburg. An active member of his community, he often hosted charity events or benefits at the tavern, including lawn-mower races and golf outings.

“It was a big part of him,” said Mrs. Fix-Devenpeck, “That was a major identity.”

Mr. Devenpeck was also active at St. John’s Church in Altamont, as well in local Elks and rod and gun clubs.

Active through his work, church, and organizations, Mr. Devenpeck was a devoted father, as well as devoted to his community.

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Mr. Devenpeck is survived by his daughter, Juliette Rose Devenpeck; his wife, Joyce Fix- Devenpeck; his mother, Linda Devenpeck; his brother, Mark Devenpeck; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; and many friends.

His, father Allen Devenpeck, died before him, as did his grandmother, Gladys Devenpeck.

Family and friends are invited to call at the DeMarco Stone Funeral Home at 5216 Western Turnpike (Route 20) in Guilderland on Saturday, Jan. 14, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be in the spring in Cooperstown, New York.

Memorial contributions may be made to Patriot Flight Inc (local Honor Flight), Post Office Box 190, Delmar, NY 12054 or to Malta Trailblazers 4-H Club, care of Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020.

— H. Rose Schneider