ALBANY – Anthony J. Harden, born on April 22, 1927 in Canajoharie, NY of Everett and Mary Julia Harden, died on Thursday, December 24, 2015 at the Teresian House in Albany. During World War II, Mr. Harden served in the U.S. Army’s 42nd Infantry “Rainbow” Division, and he was part of the group that liberated the concentration camp at Dachau. He was awarded the Silver Star and two Bronze Stars for his actions during the war. He was employed for many years by Cotrell & Leonard of Albany, and served there as general manager. He also was the president of the Intercollegiate Bureau of Academic Costume. He was a member of the VFW and the American Legion. He adored his wife and was devoted to his family, and until recently enjoyed smoking cigars daily since the age of 14.
Anthony was predeceased by his wife of 66 years, Marie J. Harden, and also by his daughter Patricia Harden. He is survived by his sons Joseph (Susan), Philip (Mary), and John (Rob); his grandsons Matthew [Maegan], Peter [Heather], Philip [Manpreet], Paul [Cassi], Lewis [Lia], Dejioun “D.J.”, and Sein; his granddaughter Alikaisha; and by twelve great grandchildren. He was also predeceased by his brother Joseph J. Harden, who was killed in the explosion of the USS Mt. Hood during World War II.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday morning at 9:30 am in the Parish of Mater Christi, Hurst Ave., Albany. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany on Tuesday from 4-7 pm. Interment will be in St. Johnsville Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions to The Writing Partnership, which is a charity dedicated to working with refugees and victims of genocide, at 156 Colonial Ave., Albany, NY 12208 or at www.writingpartnership.org . To leave a message of condolence for the family or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
Susie Smyk
December 27, 2015 at 5:54 pmMy condolences to all of the family. He is someone that had a hard and beautiful life. Prayers go out to all of you.
Stanley Isser
December 28, 2015 at 12:13 pmMy father, “Fritz” Isser, was a co-worker of Anthony’s at Cottrell’s and a friend. On my visits to their workplace I found “Tony”, as everybody called him, to be a generous man with a great sense of humor. He didn’t talk much about himself, so it was only a short while ago when the Times Union ran an article about him that I fully learned about his war record, which increased my respect for him. Ironically my father had spent time in Dachau before his escape from Europe. Tony helped him as an immigrant to settle into a new job. I was sorry to read of Tony’s passing. Please accept my condolences. I will send a contribution in his memory to The Writing Partnership.
Dan and Rhoda Drumm
December 28, 2015 at 3:22 pmWe are sorry to hear about your father. Tony was a good and kind person. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Chris Pelgrin Fitzpatrick
December 28, 2015 at 6:44 pmI have had the great good fortune of being part of this family since birth. My Uncle , when I think of him , I am reminded of his smile and steadfast loyalty and devotion and love . I am grateful to have gotten to talk with him before he left to join Aunty. I am destressed that I am bound to a prior commitment that I can’t get released from to be at his wake and funeral, but know uncle, my heart and thoughts will be there and I will come to pay my respects as soon as I can. Your loving neice, till we meet again Christy❤️
Patricia and Donald Scheu
January 6, 2016 at 11:21 amDearest john, I am so sorry to hear about Papa Tony’s passing. He was a wonderful man and we will miss his soul. We love you and we will be with y,ou in spirit at this time. – Sis and Don