GUILDERLAND — Paul Ableman, a Korean War veteran with a gentle spirit, cherished his family above all else.

He died surrounded by the love of his family on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. He was 96. 

“Born in Albany,” his family wrote in a tribute, “Paul dedicated nearly 40 years of his career to Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation, where his hard work and commitment were admired by colleagues and friends alike.

“A proud veteran, Paul served his country in the Korean War. Beyond his service and career, he found joy in the simple pleasures of life — especially gardening. His family and neighbors will fondly remember his legendary tomatoes, known for their size and flavor. Through the years, he grew many wonderful vegetables and shared them with family and neighbors. He also grew amazing strawberries and raspberries.

“Paul shared 68 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Arlene Bangert Ableman. Together they raised four children. His legacy continues through seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

“Faith was central to Paul’s life. He loved to sing ‘Jesus Loves Me,’ a hymn that reflected his gentle spirit and devotion.

“Above all, Paul cherished his family and treasured every gathering, where his warmth and laughter filled the room. Paul was a Little League baseball coach, but in retirement years, his favorite pastime was watching baseball on TV.

“Paul will be remembered as a hardworking man, a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a faithful servant. His life was a testament to love, resilience, and the joy of simple blessings.”

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Paul Ableman is survived by his wife, Arlene Bangert Ableman; by two of his four children, Glenn Ableman (Barbara), and Sandie Japour (Tom); his seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy; and his sister, Ildra (Carl) Morse. 

His children, Bill Ableman (Cindy) and Susan Stealey (Ricky), died before him, as did his brothers, Leslie (Evelyn), Charles (Gertrude), and Clyde (Edith) Ableman.

Funeral services will be held in the Hans Funeral Home at 1088 Western Ave. in Albany, on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at noon. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the funeral home Tuesday morning prior to the service beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will follow the service in Memory Gardens, Colonie.