Pasqualina Kenton
October 29, 2011
ALBANY – Pasqualina (Pat) Kenton died on Friday, October 28, 2011 after a brief battle with ALS. Pat is survived by her husband of 68 years, Edward J. Kenton; her children Judith A. (Michael) Quinn and Jeffrey P. Kenton; Beverly Kenton; grandchildren Leanne and Brian Kenton; her brother Mario Zandri, Jr and step-grandchildren Kathryn Borrelli and Sarah Osborne.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Monday, October 31 at 11:00 am at Christ the King Church, 20 Sumpter Avenue, Albany, NY, with a reception to follow at the Italian American Community Center, 257 Washington Avenue Extension. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Community Hospice of Albany County, 445 New Karner Rd.,Albany, NY, 12205. To leave a message of condolence for the family or obtain directions to the church, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
Click here to obtain direction to the church.
Edward P. Schissler
October 25, 2011
ALBANY – Edward P Schissler, 59, passed away on Tuesday, October 25, 2011 at St. Peters Hospital. Edward is survived by his mother, Margaret, and his brother, Frank (Katherine), nephew David (Mary) and grand niece -- MacKenzie and grand nephews -- Connor and Drew. His father Franklin, pre-deceased him. Edward also leaves behind his dear friends Paul Frederick and Joan Driggs.
Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours. Contributions in his memory may be made to the AmericanCancer Society. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hans Funeral Home, Albany. To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
Laimonis Betins
October 17, 2011
MARTINDALE -- Laimonis Betins, 93, of Martindale hamlet, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2011 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany, New York. His wife Milda and loving family were with him. Laimonis was most recently a resident of Pinehaven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Philmont, NY.
Born January 28, 1918 in Eleja, Latvia he was the son of the late Teodors and Elizebeta (Cimmermanis) Betins. Laimonis came to the United States as a World War II refugee in 1956 and settled in Babylon, Long Island with his wife Milda and their two children, Hans and Ilze. He worked for most of his life in the U.S. for General Builders, a housing construction company. Laimonis found great joy in vegetable gardening and his tomatoes, cucumbers and lettuces were the delight of his family, friends and neighbors.
Laimonis is survived by his wife of 63 years, Milda (Jankowski) Betins who resides in Martindale hamlet, his son Hans Betins of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware; daughter Ilze Earner, also of Martindale hamlet; daughter-in-law Linda Betins, son-in-law Laurence Earner and grandchildren Michael Betins, Stephan Betins, Zigis Switzer, Maize Earner and Kristine Earner. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Ryan and Taylor Betins.
In addition to his immediate family Laimonis is survived by his twin sister, Rasma Ence of Lakehurst, New Jersey. He was pre-deceased by his brother, Arvids Betins who died in the Soviet gulag.
Interment will take place in the spring in Catskill, NY. Donations can be made to Pinehaven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 201 Main Street, Philmont, NY 12565. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com .
John J. Avellino
October 11, 2011
ALBANY – John J. Avellino, 81, of Albany, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home during the early hours of Monday, October 10, 2011. Mr. Avellino was born in Albany, and served as a corporal in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was employed as a truck driver for many years, retiring from Peerless-Mohawk Liquor Distributors. He was a communicant for many years at the former St. Margaret Mary’s Church, and was a charter member of the Guilderland Elks Lodge 2480. Mr. Avellino spent many hours at his camp on Hadlock Lake. He loved to fish, and read books and journals, but his happiest times were spent with his wife, children and grandchildren at family gatherings.
Mr. Avellino is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Helen F. Parady Avellino; his children Karen Norris (Michael) and Susan Pezze (Frank) of Guilderland, John A. Avellino (Colleen) of Clifton Park, and Joseph A. Avellino (Sarah) of Guilderland; his brother Philip Avellino of Guilderland; his grandchildren Cheryl Morosko (Kevin), Michael John Norris, Jr., Jennifer, Meghan, Ashley and Francesca Pezze, John Francis Avellino, and Lauren and Julia Avellino; and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters Rose Wilson, Mary Hirsh, and Angie Deitz, and by his brothers Vincent and Joseph Avellino.
Funeral services will be held in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany, Friday morning at 8:15, and from there to All Saints Catholic Church (formerly St. Margaret Mary’s Church), Homestead St. Albany at 9:00. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the funeral home Thursday from 4-7 p.m. Interment will be in the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.
To leave a message of condolence for the family, send a sympathy card, or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
View Mr. Avellino’s Video Tribute
Jessie C. D. Murray
October 9, 2011
ALBANY – Jessie Catherine Doig Nicolson Murray died Sunday October 9, 2011 at the Loudonville Home for Adults surrounded by her loving family. She was 92. Mrs. Murray was born in Dundee, Scotland. She was the daughter of the late Rev. William and Jessie Nicolson. She was educated at Gillespie School for Girls in Edinburgh. During World War II she served in the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRENS). She was employed for many years at the NYS Health Dept. and retired as a Head Clerk in 1985. Previously, she was employed at the British Postal Service and at the Fuller Brush Company.
She was the widow of the late James R. Murray who died in 2006. She is survived by her daughter Nikko Carman of Albany; her son James Murray and daughter–in-law Joy Murray of Canton Mass.; her daughter Rika Murray, Esq. of Albany; and her daughter Kateri Murray, MD and son-in-law Gerard Gorski of San Rafael, Calif; her grandchildren Aaron, Erik, and Claire Carman, and Audrey, Angela, and Andrew Murray. She is also survived by nieces and nephews in the UK. She was predeceased by her brother William Nicolson and sister Ruth Cameron.
The family would like to thank the caring staff at the Loudonville Home for Adults. They would also like to thank Community Hospice of Albany who cared for Jessie in her final illness.
Funeral services will be held in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany, Wednesday morning at 8:30, and from there to the Parish of Mater Christi at 9:30. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the funeral home Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. Interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands. To leave a message of condolence for the family, send a sympathy card, or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
Robert J. Suozzo
October 9, 2011
ALBANY – A gentleman and a scholar, Robert J. (Bob) Suozzo, husband of Dolores and dedicated father of nine children and many grandchildren, passed away peacefully at 1:50 pm on Thursday, October 6, 2011. In his final days, Robert was surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born in New York on August 5, 1923 of Italian immigrant parents, Saverio and Maria (Tolve) Suozzo, Robert grew up in Astoria, NY. He graduated from Columbia College in New York in 1943 and received his medical degree from New York Medical College in 1948. After serving as a physician and captain in the US armed forces in post-war Japan, Robert completed his general and thoracic surgery residencies at the Veterans’ Administration Hospital. He was a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
Robert practiced locally as a surgeon at Albany Memorial and St. Peter’s Hospitals. During his 30-plus years in private practice, he also served as Chief of Surgery and Chairman of Staff at Albany Memorial Hospital. He retired from medicine in 1990. Robert’s career as a surgeon was marked by his dedication to the advancement of his profession, his compassion for his patients, and his kindness toward hospital staff.
Once retired, family time and his many interests filled his life. He enjoyed presiding over large family dinners filled with good food and robust conversation. Robert was cherished by his children and grandchildren for his integrity, intellect, huge heart, and dry wit.
He was a lifelong learner with many interests, ranging from the cerebral: bridge, chess, crosswords and cello (which he picked up in his 50s); to the adventurous: waterskiing, snowskiing and traveling. He was an avid tennis player well into his 80s. His most recent avocation was pool, which merged his love of mathematics and economy of motion. His days were sure to include a crossword puzzle and perusal of the latest medical and scientific research.
He is survived by Dolores, his loving wife of 64 years; his nine children: Mary Anne (Peter) Henderson of New Liskeard, Ontario, Robert Suozzo (Sheila Berman) of Clifton Park, Mark Suozzo (Karen Mooney) of New York, Elizabeth Suozzo (Christophe Golé) of Northampton, MA, Patricia (Carlo) Pasquino of Blanchardville, WI, Francis (Geri Smith) Suozzo of Goldens Bridge, Peter Suozzo (Supannee Klaharn) of New York, David Suozzo (Stephanie Mah) of Slingerlands, and Margaret Suozzo (Tom Dillon) of Los Altos Hills, CA. Robert is also survived by eighteen wonderful grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He is pre-deceased by two brothers, Andrew and John.
The family wishes to express their appreciation for the kindness of the staff of St. Peter’s Hospital where he spent his final days.
Funeral services will be held in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany, Monday at 10am, after which a Mass celebrating Robert’s life will be held at 11am in St. Vincent De Paul Church. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the funeral home Sunday from 3-6pm. To leave a message of condolence for the family or obtain directions, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com .
Zina A. Montana
October 2, 2011
ALBANY – Zina A. Bursese Montana, 88, of Albany, died Saturday, October 1, 2011 at St. Peter’s Hospital. Mrs. Montana was born in Amsterdam, but had lived in Albany since 1942. She was a 1941 graduate of St. Mary’s Institute in Amsterdam, and attended New York University. She was employed as a hematology lab technician at Albany Medical Center Hospital, and served as site manager at the Townshend Park Home for Elderly for two years. She was a communicant for many years of All Saints Catholic Church and the former St. Margaret Mary’s Church in Albany. At the church she was the first girl scout leader, and served as secretary of the Rosary Sodality, and was past president of the Senior Citizens. She also was a founding volunteer of the Albany Chapter of the Leukemia Society, a member and officer of the Guilderland Women’s Elks, a member of the Fort Orange AARP, and served as a Literacy Volunteer at the Albany Public Library. She was an avid writer of poetry, and had one of her poems published. She loved her family, and one of her greatest joys was cooking Sunday dinner for the family.
Mrs. Montana is survived by her beloved husband of 66 years Joseph E. Montana; her children Frank D. Montana (Georgene) of Litchfield, NH, and Joseph P. Montana (Patricia) of Albany; her sisters Catherine Paton of Tribes Hill, NY, and Rachel Minisci of Cobleskill, NY; her grandchildren David Sumner (Alisa), Michael Sumner and Stephen Sumner (Janet), Julie Montana-O’Donoghue (Mark), Stacey Rivera (Tito), Joseph E. Montana, and Tiffany Montana; her great grandchildren Michael, Shannon, and Ryan Sumner, Elena and Annalise Rivera, Sean and Madison O’Donoghue, and Hannah Sumner; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her daughter Judith Montana Sumner.
The family would like to thank the staff of the Albany County Nursing Home, and especially the rehab staff for the fine care they provided to Mrs. Montana.
Funeral services will be held in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany, Wednesday morning at 8:15, and from there to All Saints Catholic Church, Homestead St., Albany at 9:00. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the funeral home Tuesday from 4-8 p.m. Interment will be in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Colonie. The family suggests memorial contributions me made to the Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center, 43 New Scotland Ave., Albany, NY 12208. To leave a message of condolence for the family, send a sympathy card, or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
Horace F. “Breeze” Breedlove
October 1, 2011
ALBANY – Horace Francis “Breeze” Breedlove went to join his beloved son Christopher Hunter Breedlove on Friday, September 30, 2011. Breeze was born in Albany, the son of the late Horace F. Breedlove and Margaret McDonald Breedlove. He was a graduate of Vincentian Institute and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He earned a B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering from Indiana Institute of Technology in Fort Wayne, IN, and later attained his Professional Engineer License.
Breeze started his career at Alco Products in Schenectady, and in his eleven years there was involved in many areas of engineering. He was an application engineer on oil drilling rigs and was published in World Oil Magazine. Breeze was also the electrical engineer in charge of design and construction of the world’s first portable nuclear reactor which was deployed by the U.S. Army in Greenland. Later, he was in charge of the electrical design and construction of the State University at Albany, and after six years in that position was employed by the State University Construction Fund, where he was involved in the electrical design at various colleges. He retired at age 68, and two years later he returned to work as a consultant to the Richard Stevens Engineering Firm for three more years.
Breeze designed the National Little League in Albany, was active in the construction of the facilities, and also served as a little league coach for over 15 years.
Breeze is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Lee Hunter Breedlove; his children Carleen (Joseph) Kasson, Mary Pat (John) Fox, Brian (Sharon) Breedlove, Gregory (Laurie) Breedlove, Lisa (Newland) Lesko, Laura (Stephen) Hans, and Jill Breedlove (Stephen Hladik); his sister Patricia (Gordon) Alling; his brother Thomas (Julie) Breedlove; sixteen grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and by several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany, Saturday morning at 8:15, and from there to All Saints Catholic Church, Homestead St., Albany at 9:00. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the funeral home Friday from 4-8 p.m. Interment will be in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Colonie. To leave a message of condolence for the family, send a sympathy card, or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
Robert D. Nichols, Sr.
October 1, 2011
GUILDERLAND -- Bob, 80, passed Friday, September 30, 2011, at home peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and good friend to many.
He was born on May 23, 1931 in Albany to Martin John and Frances Ethel Nichols. He graduated from Phillip Schuyler High School and attended Hudson Valley Community College. Bob enlisted in the Navy and served in the Korean War. Bob was a member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors, Local Number 35, (serving for many years as Secretary) thus beginning his 38 years of service with Otis Elevator Company. He was a long time communicant of The Church of Saint Margaret Mary, serving as an usher for many years, and was an active member in the church’s senior citizens. He was involved in several organizations, most notably the Italian American Community Center and the Albany Elks BPOE Lodge 49.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Lillian T. Nichols (Iannelli); his devoted children Robert D. Nichols, Jr. (Theresa), Elaine T. Warfield (Buck-deceased), Anthony M. Nichols, David J. Nichols (Jennifer), Kathleen M. Rizzicone (John), and Matthew T. Nichols (Rosemarie); and his adoring grandchildren Harley, Michael, William, Kathleen, Kelly, Danielle, Kristen, Gianna and Lucas; and brother Michael White. He was predeceased by his stepfather Allan Luther, his sisters Rosemary Sayers and Betty Lou Mulligan.
The family would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to the staff of Community Hospice of Albany County especially Bob’s nurse Shirley and aides Joy and Robaire. Sincere thanks to friends and neighbors for their prayers and numerous Get Well and Mass Cards.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:00 Monday morning in All Saints Catholic Church, Homestead St., Albany. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany on Sunday from 4-7 p.m. To leave a message of condolence for the family, send a sympathy card, or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com . In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Community Hospice Foundation, 295 Valley View Blvd. Rensselaer, New York 12144 or All Saints Catholic Church, 1168 Western Avenue, Albany, New York 12203.
Jennie Mae Woltjen
October 1, 2011
DELMAR – Jennie M. Cady Bink Woltjen, 93, of Delmar, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at the Good Samaritan Lutheran Health Care Center. She was born in Sloansville, NY, July 19, 1918. She was a lifetime member and volunteer of the Salvation Army, and worked primarily as a Governess for newborn children.
Mrs. Woltjen was predeceased by her loving husbands Kenneth R. Bink, Sr., and Walter W. Woltjen, Jr. She is survived by her son Thomas R. Bink (Martha); her daughter Caroline G. Erpelding; her daughter in law Renee Bink; her sisters Marietta Denny, Elvira Davis, and Jeanette Martin; her grandchildren Tammy Crasto, Patricia LeBlanc, Edward and Kenneth Bink; and by several great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son Kenneth R. Bink, Jr.; her grandson Donald Bink; her son in law Archie Erpelding; her sister Louise Hans; her brothers James and Edward Cady; and her brothers in law Hubert Hans, Raymond Denney, Ernest Davis, and Robert Martin.
The family would like to thank the many caring and compassionate staff members of the Good Samaritan Lutheran Health Care Center and Community Hospice for the wonderful care they gave to Mrs. Woltjen.
Funeral services will be held in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany, Saturday morning at 9:00, with Rev. Frank O’Connor officiating. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the funeral home Friday from 4-7 p.m. Interment will be in Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands. To leave a message of condolence for the family, send a sympathy card, or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com .