VOORHEESVILLE — A man dedicated to his family, community, and country, Joseph P. Kernozek died unexpectedly last Thursday, April 17, 2014 after being stricken at his Stone Road home. He was 81.
Mr. Kernozek was born in Albany on Nov. 23, 1932, the son of the late Alexander and Alice (née Mause) Kernozek.

Mr. Kernozek was a veteran of the United States Army, and served during the Korean War. He married Hilda M. Rivenberg in 1956; their union lasted over half a century, ending only with his death.

Mr. Kernozek worked as a heavy-duty engineer for Ken Smith Machinery of Menands. He was a Past Commander of the Voorheesville American Legion and a lifetime member of the Voorheesville Rod and Gun Club. Mr. Kernozek enjoyed tending bar at both organizations.

He grew up on a farm and enjoyed the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing.

“He was a dedicated family man,” his family wrote in a tribute.

He is survived by his wife Hilda M. Kernozek (née Rivenburg); their children, JoAnn Kernozek-Scott of Schenectady, Michael Steven Kernozek of Charlotte, N.C., Alexander Joseph Kernozek, and his wife, Laurie, of Berne, and Suzanne Kernozek Gwinn of Grimes, Iowa; a brother, Thaddeuis “Teddy” Kernozek and his wife, Eileen, of Voorheesville; a sister-in-law, Marion Kernozek, of Voorheesville; and seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

His brother, Chester “Chet” Kernozek, died before him.

Calling hours for relatives and friends are from 11 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 26 at the Frendendall Funeral Home, 199 Main Street, Altamont. A memorial service will be held at noon in the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.frendendallfuneralhome.com

“The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the members of the Altamont Rescue Squad for their care and compassion,” the family wrote in a tribute.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Altamont Rescue Squad, 767 Route 146, Altamont.

 -Lisa Nicole Viers