CLIFTON PARK — Leonard J. Berschwinger, known as “Bud,” died peacefully on Sunday, Aug. 23, at Saratoga Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

“Bud had celebrated his 93rd birthday just three weeks earlier on Aug. 2,” his family wrote in a tribute.

Born in Albany, he was the son of the late Leonard F. and Anna Berschwinger. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, serving from 1945 to 1946.

“Bud was a well-known area building contractor having built and remodeled numerous homes in the area,” his family wrote. “He was well known for his superior craftsmanship, easy-going personality, and was always there to lend a hand to a friend or family member in need.

“He loved fishing in the Adirondacks and the yearly last-week-of-August trips to Chateaugay Lake. Later in life, he and his wife, Janis, built a ‘camp’ in Lake Luzerne where they spent many enjoyable times with family and friends.

“He loved gardening, playing horseshoes, fixing anything that needed fixing, and just loved being with his family and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. A big part of his legacy is his role in establishing what will forever be recognized as ‘Grampie Jokes.’ Some may find them a little corny, but we all treasure them all, and promise to carry on this tradition.

“Bud was very involved in the community. He was a lifetime member of the Guilderland Center Fire Department where he served as president and captain. He also was a member of the Board of Fire Commissioners and served a term as chairman. He also enjoyed his position as the head coach of the GCFD baseball team in the old Altamont Little League, coaching all four of his boys along with many others over several years.”

****

Leonard J. Berschwinger is survived by his wife, Janis; his children; Leonard (Richard), David (Cathy), Patricia Headwell (Keith), Michael (Fleda), and Robert (Rebecca) and their families; his stepchildren, Melody Goetz (Paul), and George Jones and their families, all of whom loved him deeply and will treasure his memory.

He also leaves behind his brother, Richard (Yvonne); daughter-in-law Dawn Berschwinger; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

His sister Anne Bastiani died before him, as did his brother Frederick (Mick); his former wife, G. Jeanne Berschwinger; and his stepdaughter Kimberly Jones.

A funeral service was held on Monday, Aug. 31. Interment was at Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville.

“A special thanks to the staff at Saratoga Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the love and care they gave Bud during his time there. The family recognizes and appreciates the love and support of our friends and relatives but understands the limitations COVID places on all of us,” his family wrote. “Please know that if you cannot be with us in person, that we know you are with us in spirit. Thank you.”

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post 977, Helderberg Riders, 988 Altamont Blvd., Altamont, NY 12009 or to St. Edward the Confessor Church 569 Clifton Park Center Rd, Clifton Park, NY 12065.