RENSSELAERVILLE — Zachary Gerdsmeier died on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones and friends, from complications following a recent heart attack. He was 40.

“A stonemason and tree-removal expert by trade, he had worked for the Albany County Department of Public Works as an operator and plowtruck driver for several years,” his family wrote in a tribute. “Zack was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for fishing and bush crafting.”

He is survived by two sons, Nicoli Hunter and Zander Karl Gerdsmeier, and their mother, Ally Oyston (née Benninger); his mother, Pauline Gerdsmeier; and his sister, Jessica Hartenbaum; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

His father, Russell Carl Gerdsmeier, died before him, as did his younger brother, Jason T. Gerdsmeier.

Calling hours and a celebration of life were held on Saturday, Oct. 25, at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home in Greenville. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Animal Kind, Post Office Box 902, Hudson, NY 12534, or to a local animal shelter of the donor’s choice.