GUILDERLAND — Family was the greatest joy for Lee N. Sornberger, who had a career in building materials and construction management. 

He died on Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, with his wife, Linda, by his side. He was 79.

He was born on Jan. 18, 1945 in Gloversville, New York to the late Gordon and Helen Conway Sornberger. He was a graduate of the Utica Free Academy, Class of 1963.

“He met Linda in 1966, when he began working at 84 Lumber in Guilderland,” his family wrote in a tribute. “They were married on July 6, 1968. He spent most of his career in building materials and construction management.

“His greatest joy in life was his family and he never missed a chance to talk about them to anyone who would listen. He was very involved in the Guilderland Pine Bush Little League through the 1970’s and ’80s, as a parent and a coach. He was an active member of the Guilderland Lions Club for many years, and donated to numerous charities.”

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Lee N. Sornberger is survived by his wife, Linda Van Patten Sornberger; his loving children, Kelly (Matthew) Wright of Queensbury, Kacey Sornberger of Guilderland, and Brandon Sornberger of Los Angeles, California; and his adored grandchildren, Gwyn, Aidan, Brooklynn, and Korbin.

He is also survived by his sister, Judith Eckler-Queen; his brothers-in-law, Jay Van Patten, Jan (Gail) Van Patten, and Chris (Carlene) Van Patten; and his sisters-in-law, Lisa (Patrick) Clark and Jill Van Patten.

His brother, George, died before him, on Sept. 13, 2024, as did his brother-in-law, Jeff Van Patten.

“His family would like to thank all the devoted and compassionate people who came into their lives in the past seven months: the Guilderland EMS, the staff at St. Peter’s Hospital, and the staff at the Daughters of Sarah Rehab Facility and Nursing Home,” the tribute said.

He has been privately cremated. Calling hours will be held on Friday, Sept. 27, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the DeMarco Stone Funeral Home at 5216 Western Tpke. in Guilderland, followed by a memorial service at 6 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Guilderland Baseball, Post Office Box 401, Guilderland, NY 12084.