ALTAMONT — “After an extended battle with various undiagnosed ailments, ‘The Man with Nine Lives’ went home to be with Jesus on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025,” the family of Louis John Meagley Sr. wrote in a tribute. He was 87.

“Lou was born in Schenectady on Jan. 4th, 1938, the son of Walton and Louise Meagley, affectionately known as Gramma Wheezy,” his family wrote. “His education was somewhat limited, having dropped out in his junior year of high school to financially assist his mother. Against all odds, he went on to obtain his G.E.D., obtaining one of the highest scores in the area.

“When Lou was 14, he met the love of his life, Gail Fraser, when both joined ‘The Silhouette Drum Core.’ Gail, at the young age of 13, knew instantly: ‘I’m going to marry this man.’ Lo and behold, the childhood sweethearts were wed on April 12, 1957.

“Lou was a devoted and hardworking family man. Never in his adult life was he ever out of work until his retirement, sometimes working two or three jobs at a time.

“In 1964, while working as a parts clerk at Ingersoll Rand, he was offered a job at Air Compressor Engineering in Westfield, Massachusetts. Through sheer diligence and an exemplary work ethic, he worked his way up the ladder and became a trusted employee, and eventually part-owner of the company, opening a branch in Clifton Park.

“Music was also a huge part of Lou’s life. At 10, he learned to play the piano, and by 15 was playing with seasoned professionals. He then started his own group, ‘The Misty Men Quartet.’ As his family grew, his musical life took a backseat.

“In retirement, he loved to bike, camp, and travel to all the places he’d longed to see —  bringing his sometimes-less-than-willing family along for the ride.

“Through his entire life, no one could have disputed Lou’s relationship with the Lord. He believed anything and everything good in his life came from God. He was an active member of the Altamont Reformed Church for many years, then became a member of Sonrise Bible Church for 20 more, until his passing.

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Louis John Meagley Sr. is survived by his wife of 67 years, Gail Meagley; his children, Wendy Bartell (late husband Bill), Bonnie Fleet (Les), Buddy Meagley (David), and Christopher Meagley; his grandchildren, Robert Bartell (Beth), Melissa Turner-Tashjian (Mark Jr.), Sarah Fleet, and Jonathan Fleet; his great-grandchildren, Nehemiah, Eden, Jenna, Colson, and Mila; and his beloved cohorts and best friends Karen D’Errico and John Kadas (Beverly).

“Plus too many other family members and friends to name, whom he loved dearly,” the tribute said.

His parents, Walton and Louise Meagley, died before him, as did his wife’s parents, Gordon and Jane; his brother, Walt; and three of his wife’s siblings, Joan, Judy and Gilbert. 

All are invited to Sonrise Bible Church at 1082 Dunnsville Road in Schenectady on Feb. 8; calling hours will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the memorial service (casual-attire) and a reception immediately following.