Archive » February 2018 » Obituaries

Shirley M. Harrington

Shirley M. Harrington

ALTAMONT — Shirley Harrington “was a devoted mother with a wonderful sense of humor, who would make everybody feel welcome,” said her daughter, Ellen Fisher.

Shirley M. (née Merriman) Harrington died unexpectedly at her home surrounded by her family on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018. She was 83.

Thomas Hesler

Thomas Hesler

GUILDERLAND — Thomas Hesler, a World War II veteran who worked as a postal clerk and school-bus driver, died peacefully with his family by his side at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2018. He was 92.

Peter E. Knauss

Peter E. Knauss

GUILDERLAND — Peter E. Knauss, a longtime resident of Guilderland, was key in setting up group homes for people with disabilities at a time when that was often unpopular. He died on Monday, Feb. 5, 2018, in Madison, Wisconsin, with his son Jody by his side. He was 88.

Clara Joy Edgerton Freisatz

Clara Joy Edgerton Freisatz

GUILDERLAND CENTER — Clara Joy Edgerton Freisatz, an independent woman who persisted through illness to care for her family, died on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018. She was 86.

“She’s very down to earth,” said her daughter, Karen White. Mrs. Freitsatz was also resilient. She did not dwell on her hardships.

Michael J. Dansereau

Michael J. Dansereau

GUILDERLAND — Michael J. Dansereau was a sweet and nurturing person who would bring his wife a cup of tea and fluff up her pillows whenever she didn’t feel well, recalled Barbara J. (née Speers) Dansereau.

Thomas Santon Tipple

GUILDERLAND — Thomas Santon Tipple, who spent nearly 40 years in state service and, after that, led the Community Caregivers, died peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018 at the Hospice Inn at St. Peter’s in Albany after a heroic battle with pancreatic cancer. He was the beloved husband of Adrienne Melissa Johnson. He was 64.

Gertrude Rosalie Smith

VOORHEESVILLE — Gert Smith was “like a mother,” say many people who worked for her at the iconic Smith’s Tavern in Voorheesville. She cared for her employees like family and many emulated her strong work ethic.

George Winters

HUDSON, Fla. — George Winters was a “jack of all trades” who mastered several different skills over the course of a long life filled with adventures. He died on Monday, Jan. 15, 2018. He was 82.