GUILDERLAND — Michael Zelezniak of Guilderland, who founded Northeastern Stud Welding in town, died after a short illness on Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021, at home with family members at his side. He was 89.

He was born in Oppenheim, in Fulton County, New York on May 14, 1932.

“Michael had a love of all animals, especially cats, dogs, and horses,” his family wrote in a tribute. “He was an avid Yankees fan. During his retirement, he loved cruising with his family. Having grown up in a family with nine siblings, Michael’s family was most important to him.”

Mr. Zelezniak was the founder and owner of Northeastern Stud Welding in Guilderland until his retirement when his son, Stephen Zelezniak, took over the business.

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Michael Zelezniak is survived by his children, Susan Zelezniak and Gary Eichenbaum, Sharon Zelezniak, and Stephen Zelezniak; by his grandchildren, Devan Michael Zelezniak, Nicholas Zelezniak and Megan and Matthew Zelezniak, and Sarah Anne and Joshua Lawrence Eichenbaum; and by his great-granddaughter, Adaline Zelezniak.

He is also survived by his sister, Daisy Castle, and her husband, Herman; by his brother, Walter Zelezniak, and his wife, Margo; by his sisters-in-law, Charlotte Lichtenberg and Virginia Coleman; and by his brother-in-law, Richard Abbott.

His wife, Kathryn Jean Zelezniak, died in 2016.

Calling hours will be held Monday, Aug. 23, from 4 to 7 p.m. at New Comer Cremations & Funerals at 343 New Karner Road. A funeral ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 24, at the Hamilton Union Presbyterian Church at 2291 Western Ave. in Guilderland. Burial will follow at Prospect Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation, Post Office Box 122, Greenville, NY 12083; or to North Country Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 7700 NY-9N, Elizabethtown NY 12932; or to any charity of your choice.