WESTERLO — “John C. Rosenthal I entered the Lord’s loving arms on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024 at his home surrounded by his loving wife, children, and family,” his family wrote in a tribute.

Born in Albany on March 6, 1949, he was the son of the late Charles E. Rosenthal Jr. and Alberta S. (née Masa) Rosenthal.

He was a graduate of Philip Schuyler High School and served in the Army National Guard for 16 years, from 1968 to 1984.

“John enjoyed his yearly summer vacations to Daytona Beach, Florida,” his family wrote. “He worked at Owen’s Cornings Fiberglass for 36 years, retiring in 2014.”

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 51 years, Margaret “Peggy” E. Rosenthal; his children, Christina (Mark) (granddaughter Kiersten) Sleicher of Seminole, Florida, Cindy J. Rosenthal of Seminole, Florida, John C. (grandson Austin) Rosenthal II of Westerlo, stepdaughter Lisa (Kevin) (granddaughter Jillisa Morehouse) Steidle of Central Bridge, New York, stepson James A. (Carrie O’toole) (granddaughter Jaylena) Rossman Jr. of Westerlo, and Christopher Rivers, his great-grandson whom he raised, of Westerlo.

He was the brother of Vincent (the late Rita) Rosenthal of Altamont, Carl (Marion) Rosenthal of Latham, Jean (the late Frank Zikas Jr.) Rosenthal of Colonie, Paul Rosenthal of Albany, and Lillian (Ian) Bonthron  of Rotterdam.

His step daughter, Lora Cafaro, died before him but he is survived by her children, Amanda Rivers, Taylor Demarest, Lora “Little Lora” Cafaro, and Michael John Cafaro. He is also survived by 19 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

“We would like to add a special thank you to his sister-in-law Barbara McDermott for all her assistance, love,  and emotional support during his final days,” his family wrote.

“He requested everyone to remember him the way he was, his happy, old ‘Grumpy’ self. He wants you to smile when you remember him. Therefore, at his request, there will be no visitation or services.”