Archived News 2015        Home

December 6, 2015: 
Bernie Robbins, `57, President, ailing: 
John Benton, `57 thoughtfully sent information that Bernie is seriously ill and would enjoy hearing from his Potter Club friends.  His home address is P.O. Box 2025, Truro, MA 02666.  Phone: 508-487-7708

In Memoriam:

KrchniakMilan Martin Krchniak, 84, of East Greenbush, passed away during the early morning hours of December 2, 2015, surrounded by family at St. Peter's Hospital in Albany. Milan was born on March 6, 1931, in Little Falls, N.Y., one of three sons of the late Martin and Susan Krchniak. Reflecting on his Slovak heritage, Milan enjoyed violin in high school and played for the Little Falls Symphony. Later in life, he enjoyed gardening, puttering and fishing. Milan received his B.A. and M.A. from the New York State College of Teachers in Albany, as well as advanced studies at other universities. He taught History in the Phelps, N.Y. and East Greenbush school systems until 1960. He served as guidance counselor as well as director of Pupil Services and Instruction in the East Greenbush School System until his retirement in 1986, after serving 33 years as an educator. In 1987, Milan worked as an interim administrator, consultant and grant writer for BOCES. Following his retirement, Milan kept active serving in various offices of the local and state retired teachers associations, primarily monitoring state legislative activities. He served on the Board of Literacy Volunteers of America-Troy as well as with the Potter Club. He was predeceased by his brother, Samuel; and his brother Stefan's wife, Nancy. Milan is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Joanne; as well as his highly loved family; daughter Susan Fordley of Rensselaer, daughter Heidi Flynn(Jim) of Watervliet, brother Stefan of Bonita Springs, Fla. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Christopher Flynn (Gabrielle) of Centerville, Ohio and Milani Flynn of Watervliet, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service at Rockefeller Funeral Home, 165 Columbia Turnpike in Rensselaer, on Monday, December 28, at 1 p.m. A gathering following the service will be held at the Melvin Post American Legion in East Greenbush. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice , or the W.F. Bruen Rescue Squad, 1116 Red Mill Road, Rensselaer, NY, 12144.
Milan was a member of the Class of 1953 and Potter Club 1953.

Edward Eldred Potter, II:  Born in Plattsburgh, NY on Feb. 5, 1921, departed on Nov. 22, 2015, and resided in Barkhamsted, CT. He was the nephew of Edward Eldred Potter, and was the loving husband of Alice (Scott) Potter. The full obituary will soon be available and the service information.  Montano-Shea Funeral, 5 Steele Road,  New Hartford, CT.

November 6, 2015: In Memoriam:

Singleton
Thomas J. Singleton, 85, of Mount Kisco, died Monday, Nov. 2.  Born in 1930 to Matthew and Margaret Singleton in Greenwich, Conn., he attended local Mount Kisco public and parochial schools, then the State University at Albany and Albany Law School. He also attended the University of Paris (Sorbonne) and University of Maryland for additional studies. 

He practiced law in Mount Kisco for more than 55 years, originally with Salvato and Singleton, then Singleton and Singleton and finally with Singleton, Davis & Singleton, PLLC. Throughout his career, he was very active in veterans, civil rights and Irish causes and organizations.  He is survived by his wife of many years, Patricia; a daughter, Lauren Singleton Winston; a son and law partner, Whitney Singleton; six grandchildren; and a sister and a brother.  Visitors will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Cassidy-Flynn Funeral Home Inc., 288 E. Main St., Mount Kisco. Burial will take place Friday at Oakwood Cemetery, Mount Kisco.  Tom was a member of the Class of 1952 and Potter Club 1952.

PotterPotter, Gloria M. COLONIE Gloria M. Potter passed away surrounded by her loving family on October 30, 2015, at Albany Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. She was 87 years old. The daughter of the late Adam "Ed" and Gertrude (Duffy) Scymanky, Gloria was born on November 15, 1927, in Plattsburgh, and grew up in Rouses Point, N.Y. She met and married Frank C. Potter in Plattsburgh, where together they raised their family. In the early eighties, they moved to Colonie. Gloria had a zest for life; she was a social butterfly who could talk to anyone which was evident by her many friends. Gloria had many talents including gardening, oil painting and singing. She was a member of the Sweet Adelines, and one of her favorite activities was dancing with Frank. Gloria was a wonderful and loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt. She touched many lives and was the bond that connected many circles. She will be deeply missed by all that knew her. Gloria is survived by her children, Susan M. Mintzer and Robert C. Potter; her grandchildren, Jessica, Justin, Kalli, Matthew, Jennifer and Lauren; her four great-grandchildren, and many family members and friends. In addition to her parents, Gloria was predeceased by her loving husband, Frank C. Potter; her siblings, Jack, Jimmy, Gert, and Pat; and her beloved cat, Kiki. Per Gloria's wishes a memorial service will be celebrated at a future date. Memorial donations may be made in Gloria's name to a charity of one's choice.

Gloria's husband, Frank, was a nephew of Edward Eldred Potter.  Gloria and her daughter, Susan Potter Mintzer, Edward's grand niece, attended the 80th Anniversary Reunion of Potter Club.


October, 16, 2015:  Fall Luncheon, October 14 Update:
  Attending: Bob Umholtz, `51; Claude Palczak, `53; Paul Ward, `53; John Centra, `54; Peter McManus, `54; Jack Higham, `57; Bernie McEvoy, `57; Jim Morrissey, `57; Fred Culbert, `65; Richard Szymanski, `67; Gerry Leggieri, `68.  Regrets sent by Doug Davis and Milan Krchniak.  Milan was unable to attend due to health issues.  Send your greetings to him.

alb lunchPaul gave an update on the status of the placing of the war memorial plaques at Draper Hall on the downtown campus.  Plaques are still to be placed to the right of the Main Entrance to Draper.

Status was reported of the hanging of the Times-Union tribute to Joe Persico in the Potter Room.

Sports Memorabilia from the 50s sent by Bab Ashfield, `55, was shared by all.  Bob had been in Albany in September for 60th Anniversary of Class of 1955.

Next Potter Club Luncheon, Tuesday April 12, 2016:  Some sentiment expressed about extending the invitations for this gathering to all Potter Men, and making this a one-day mini-reunion celebrating the 85th Anniversary of the founding of Edward Eldred Potter Club, for any who wished to make the trek to Albany.  Send your sentiment and possible intentions to attend to me (see contact info below).  More information will be posted here and by email in early 2016.

More pictures from this Albany Luncheon in the Photo Gallery, see:
 http://www.potterclubalumni.com/Gallery/thumbnails.php?album=3

October 4, 2015:  Fall, 10/14, Luncheon Attendance Update: As of today those planning to attending include: John Centra, `54 (possibly); Fred Culbert, `65; Jack Higham, `57; Milan Krchniak, `53; Gerry Leggieri, `68; Bernie McEvoy, `57; Pete McManus, `54; Claude Palczak, `53; Bob Umholtz, `51; and Paul Ward, `53.  Still time for you to attend, if you let Paul know now!

In Memoriam: Recent passings posted in the Fall issue of UAlb Alumni Magazine:

bosomworthRobert W. Bosomworth, 78, (Potter Club, 1958) of New Smyrna Beach, departed this life on Friday, March 13, 2015 after a very successful day fishing at the beach.  He was born on March 23, 1936 in Merrick, Long Island, NY, where he lived with his parents, Charles and Elizabeth, and his brothers, Charles and Alan.  On July 14, 1962, Bob married his best friend and the love of his life, Theresa Vitale, after serving in Korea with the US Army. Bob and Teri spent the 1st part of their 53 year marriage raising their family in St James, NY, where Bob taught Math and coached wrestling at Centereach High School until his retirement. His advice to everyone "Retire as soon as you are able. Retirement is great".  Although he supported his new home team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, he remained a transplanted NY Giants fan. Always musical, Bob became a member of the Barber Shop Society of Daytona and the humorously named "3 Nice Guys" quartet. Bob and Teri did everything together from long vacations to short trips to the store, but if you saw him alone, it was usually at the beach surfing the waves or "drowning worms". Bob was a member of American Legion Post 17. After years of camping all across the United States, Bob and Teri expanded their travels to include most of Europe and recently, Australia/New Zealand.  He is survived by his wife Teri; his daughters, Leslie and Nancy; his son, Bobby; his son-in-law, Michael; and his nine grandchildren, Marissa, Kaitlin, Megan, Allison, Sara, Emily, Teresa, Bobby and Charlene. He leaves behind many friends and family who will miss his sharp wit, his original limericks and puns, his loving nature and ever the teacher, he was always willing to do for those who were unable and instruct those who were.  Using his own words from his last trip, we say Good Bye.  "...You've made our whole trip such a delight,  That it's terribly hard to call it a night,  But we'll say "Kia Ora" and be on our way,  And one last time, bid you "G'day".


clementJoseph Clement Jr., 80, (Potter Club 1960) of Rochester, NY and New Smyrna Beach, FL., passed away peacefully on April 10, 2015 in Florida. Joe was born on Sept. 26, 1934 in Tupper Lake, NY, son of Joseph Xavier and Priscilla Clara LaMora. He was preceded in death by siblings Leon, Gerald, Robert and Ethel. He is survived by sister Thelma Manning and brother Wallace (Betsy).  Surviving are his loving wife Margaret "Maggie" Sapere Clement, daughters, Ann Renee (Peter) Wilsey, Jill (Dean) Crocker, and son Joseph Clement III (Linda Parkes). He was previously married to Norma Roscoe. He has five adult step-children: Patricia (Phil) Sapere Sacchitella, Lynn (Joe) Ruffino, Dr. Frank (Audrey) Sapere, Scott Sapere, and Daryn (Christina) Sapere. He has five grandchildren and ten step-grandchildren.  Joe received a bachelors and masters degree from SUNY Albany. He is a lifelong proud veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. He was a charter member of the Spencerport Rotary, inducted into the Spencerport Athletic Hall of Fame, member of Phi Delta Kappa and the American Legion, and an avid tennis and shuffleboard player. He retired in 1992, after serving for eighteen years as superintendent of schools in Spencerport, NY. Prior to being superintendent, he was a teacher, high school principal and assistant superintendent for business. He also served as an adjunct professor at SUNY Brockport where he taught graduate students. Joe also served as an educational consultant throughout the country and performed a study of the American Schools in Holland. The Board of Education commissioned a portrait that is displayed at the entrance of the administration building and in 1980 the Ogden Senior Citizens proclaimed May 13 Joe Clement Day for his assistance and support of the association over the years.  His family will receive friends on FRIDAY, April 17th from 4 to 8 pm at Profetta Funeral Chapel, 1650 Empire Blvd., Webster, NY 14580. On SATURDAY, April 18th, a Mass will be held at 10:30 am at Church of the Assumption, 20 East Ave., Fairport, NY 14450. Contributions may be made in Joe's memory to Spencerport Central Retirees Association Scholarship Fund c/o David Ball, 8 Cherry Drive, Brockport, NY 14420.


horakWilliam J. Horak (Potter Club 1955) died May 4, 2015, while a resident at the Wells Nursing Home. He was born in Johnstown, New York on June 25, 1932, to the late Maria and Jozef Horak.  He is survived by his sisters, Mary Johnson and her late husband Larry and Julia Jagielski and her husband Richard. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews and their families and cousins along with many devoted friends.  He was predeceased by his brother, Joseph and his wife, Peggy.  He was a graduate of Johnstown High School, class of 1950. William received his bachelor's degree in math and biology from Albany State in 1955 and a master's degree in education in 1958. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Army from 1955 to 1957. From 1960 to 1970 he taught for the Department of Defense dependent school system in France, Spain, Norway and England. In 1976 he earned a chefs certificate from Schenectady County Community College.  The family wishes to thank the entire personnel of the Wells Nursing Home for the excellent and compassionate care William received.  Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of William's family. Arrangements are in the care of Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville, New York 12078. Please share your condolences online at www.brbsfuneral.com.

[Footnote:  Bill's whereabouts were unknown to us until his passing was reported in the most recent Alumni Magazine.]


reagPaul T. Reagan (Potter Club, 1960), a resident of Red Hook, N.Y., and for many years before, Rhinebeck, N.Y., died March 5, 2015, at Northern Dutchess Hospital, from complications following a fall on the ice near his home on January 20. He was 77.  Mr. Reagan, a former psychological social worker for Dutchess County and several other social service agencies, had been very active in civic organizations up to a few years before his death, when he was in declining health. He was a former president of PANDA community access television, the SUNY-Albany Alumni Association, and a number of other organizations and groups.  Born in 1938 in Potsdam, New York, (St. Lawrence County), Mr. Reagan grew up in Potsdam and Syracuse, New York, the son of Leo Mark Reagan and Helen McCarthy Reagan, who were from nearby Norfolk, New York, and Brasher Falls, New York, respectively. Paul Reagan graduated from St. John's Catholic Academy, Syracuse, and went on to receive a B.A. from SUNY-Albany (then Albany State Teachers' College) in 1960, where he played varsity soccer.  Mr. Reagan taught history and drama at St. Lawrence Central High School in Brasher Falls in Northern New York.  In 1962, he became a Peace Corps Volunteer and served two years teaching school in Nazareth, Ethiopia. His experiences in Africa comprised a highlight of his life, and allowed him to travel extensively in the Middle East and Europe. He became an enthusiastic member of the Committee for Returned Peace Corps Volunteers.  After his service in Ethiopia, Mr. Reagan returned to Northern New York, where he was took jobs in anti-poverty programs and community organizing. He also relocated to Northern California for a period, training new Peace Corps volunteers at the University of California, Davis. Later he returned to the East Coast, obtaining a Masters in Social Work at SUNY-Albany, and working for a variety of social service agencies, notably the New York State Office of Migrant Labor Education, traveling around the state helping administrate schooling for the children of migrant agricultural workers.  Charmed by the Rhinebeck area during his travels around the state, he relocated there in the 1980s, working for the Dutchess County Department of Mental Hygene. He was active in the local Democratic Party, was the Democratic nominee for New York State Senate in one election, and served on the County Democratic Committee. In 1992, he served as a delegate to the 1992 National Democratic Party convention in New York City.  Among his civic activities, Mr. Reagan served as a hospice volunteer, an historic guide at the FDR home at Hyde Park, and as the first president of PANDA-TV (Public Access Northern Dutchess Area, Inc.), where he also produced and hosted a weekly television show. He also served on the boards for Daytop Village and the Dutchess County Coalition for the Homeless, and on the Rhinebeck Town-Village cooperation committee.  Mr. Reagan retired in 2002 , but stayed busy as a American Red Cross volunteer counseling disaster area victims. Not only did he serve displaced citizens in Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina, but tornado victims in Iowa, flood victims in Pennsylvania, and forest fire victims in California, among many other places.  Mr. Reagan is survived by his daughter, Siobhan Reagan and her husband Kevin Ross, New York City; his brother, Tim Reagan and his wife Shelly Weintraub, Oakland, California; his two nephews, Matthew Lyons Reagan and Michael Leo Reagan, both of whom live in the San Francisco Bay Area; and many cousins, many of them living in Northern New York.   memorial service is planned for Mr. Reagan in Massena, New York, later in the year. Local arrangements have been handled by the Dapson-Chestney Funeral Home in Rhinebeck.






September 17, 2015: Fall Luncheon, October 14 at Route 7 Diner, Latham.  Announcements have gone out by mail and email to those wishing to be on the Albany Luncheon mailing list.  If you wish to attend, notify Paul Ward or me by October 7.

Class of 1955 60th Reunion:  Members of the Albany State Class of 1955 met in Albany for their reunion on September 11-13.  Attending from Potter Club were Bob Ashfield and guest Judy McClure; Bob Coan; and Don and Marian Lein.  The following link will take you to the Alumni Association site with the full details of the event: http://www.alumni.albany.edu/s/1642/02-alumni/index.aspx?sid=1642&gid=2&pgid=847

Paul and Doris Ward, `53 and `52, met Bob and Judy prior to the reunion, toured them on the new campus and the Potter Memorial Room.

Bill LaBarr reported in late May he had undergone triple bypass surgery and was in the hospital for a month in Florida.

In Memoriam Listing:  The list has been brought up to date and now lists 299 deceased Pottermen.  See link at the left.

June 28, 2015:  In Memoriam: Capt. Francis Joseph Schatzle (USN, Ret.) February 26, 1932 - June 9, 2015
Captain Francis Joseph Schatzle, (Ret. USN), age 83, passed away on Tuesday, June 9 in Annapolis, MD. Born in Cold Spring (Nelsonville), NY to the late Frank and Mary Schatzle, Frank cherished his hometown. The eldest of 5 boys, Frank and his brothers loved to tell stories of growing up in Nelsonville and Cold Spring, attending school at Haldane High School, ice skating on frozen ponds, running around main street and working all over the village. All 5 brothers were exceptional high school athletes. Frank held the New York State high school mile record for many years, raced in Madison Square Garden against Roger Bannister, and continued to run races and marathons for decades. He graduated from Haldane High School in 1949, from Albany State in 1953, Potter Club, `53, with a Bachelors Degree in Physics and finally a Masters Degree from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. In January of 1954, Frank was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy. While serving in Jacksonville, FL, he met his wife of 49 years, Ann Turner, (1932-2010), whom he loved dearly. Ann, from Peterborough, England, met Frank when she was working as a stewardess for National Airlines. Frank enjoyed a long and distinguished 29-year Naval career, retiring as Captain in 1983. Frank was extremely proud of his Naval Career and upon his retirement was considered one of the top hurricane experts in the country.

Frank was a lifelong avid golfer who loved to tee off early in the "Dawn Patrol", so he could be home in time to work in the yard. After retiring, he remained in Pass Christian, MS, enjoying golf, happy hours with Ed and Helen Smith, attending Navy Hurricane Hunter Reunions with lifelong Navy friends, and enjoying Mardi Gras every year for 33 years, all the while collecting thousands of beads, mementoes and memories.

In addition to his wife and parents, Frank was preceded in death by his brothers, Arnold, Eddie and Danny Schatzle. He is survived by three children, Matthew Schatzle of Annapolis, MD, Sharon (Jeff) Bonck and Andrew (Amy) Schatzle all of Pass Christian, MS and his brother, Phillip Schatzle, of Cold Spring, NY. He is also survived by a source of great pride to Frank, his ten grandchildren, Claire, Jacob and Noah Schatzle of Annapolis, MD, Stephen, Jack and David Bonck, Alison, Nicholas, Brady and Cooper Schatzle all of Pass Christian, MS.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11:00am on Tuesday, June 23 at Our Lady of Loretto Church, 24 Fair St., Cold Spring, NY, followed by interment at Cold Spring Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Haldane High School Foundation, where all five brothers attended school.
http://www.haldaneschoolfoundation.org/HowToHelp.html
 

April 17, 2015: Spring Potter Luncheon held April 15, 2015 at Latham:  Those attending included: Pete McManus, `54; Milan Krchniak, `53; Bob Giammatteo, `53; Claude Palczak, `53; Frank Ioele, `52; Paul Ward, `53; Bernie McEvoy, `57; Bob Umholtz, `51; Gerry Leggieri, `68; Doug Davis, `69; and Jack Higham, `57.  Fred Culbert, `65 unable to attend at last minute.  Pictures are posted in the Photo Gallery, Albany Luncheons.  Paul reported on the progress of the war veteran plaques, and on plans to establish the Joe Persico Library in the Potter Memorial Room.  The Fall Luncheon agenda will include discussion of plans, if any, for an 80th anniversary celebration, and what to do with money in our account with the Association at the point we decide to dissolve as a group. 
If you have any ideas or suggestions, contact us.
Address change for Grant Downs, `68.  See link at left.

In Memoriam:  The picture of Richard was in a Syracuse newspaper about Licensed Practical Nurses, 02/24/2014

Richard MargisonRichard L. Margison, `36 
Friday, March 20, 2015:  Richard L. Margison was born in Albany, N. Y. on July 2, 1914 to parents Louis and Carrie Margison. He received a B.S and M.S. Degree at the Albany State Teachers College and then taught Business Subjects in High Schools in Coeymans, Mohawk and Lake Mahopac, New York from l936 to194l.

He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 194l and assigned to the 96th CAA Regiment anti-aircraft unit at Camp Davis, N.C. After Pearl Harbor attack he was alerted for overseas shipment. He married Margaret Kaemmerlen on Dec. 3l, l941 in Wilmington,North Carolina and was sent to the West Coast for shipment to Corregidor. Corregidor fell while his convoy was en route and the 96th CAA (AA) was diverted to Hawaii. He applied for OCS and came back to the States for Officer Training. After Graduation he was assigned to the 449th CAA (AAA) AW Mbl. and trained at Camp Edwards on Cape Cod.

The 449th was sent to England in 1943 for further training before the invasion of Europe in 1944. Took part in campaigns in Normandy, Northern France, the Ardennes, Battle of the Bulge, the Rhineland and Central Europe until V-E day in June 1945. He separated from the service with the rank of Captain in December of 1945.

After teaching at the Northampton, Mass. commercial college for two years he accepted the position of Business Officer at the Potsdam State Teachers College in 1948 and served there until 1959 when he accepted a similar position as Vice President at the State University College at Cortland. In addition to supervising the Business affairs of the college he coordinated the expansion of the college involving over $100,000,000 of construction work. He retired in 1978 except for a few years of part time teaching in the Economics Dept. at SUNY.

A staunch supporter of community activities, he was a member and Pres. of the Chamber of Commerce, member and Chairman of the Planning Commission, Trustee of the Cortland YWCA, member of the board of the Murray Center, member of the Central New York Regional Planning Board, member and Treasurer of Blue Cross-Blue Shield of Central New York, member and President of the Cortland Rotary Club, Trustee of the Cortland Savings Bank, and a Deacon, Trustee and Elder of the United Presbyterian Church.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret, a daughter, Ellen Jennings of Baldwinsville, N. Y., a son Richard (Lynn) and a son-in-law, Thomas Cleveland. He was predeceased by a daughter, Nancy Cleveland and son-in-law Robert Jennings. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren: Christopher (Jennifer) and Scott Cleveland, Ramsey (Lauren) and Blake Margison, and Allison and Sarah Jennings and 6 great grandchildren: Bobby , Brendan , Emily and Abby Cleveland and Gracie Jane and Benjamin Margison).

Those wishing to make a donation are requested to consider the stain glass window project at the United Presbyterian Church in Cortland, NY. Peg and the family would like to express their gratitude to the loving caregivers at McHarrie Pointe and McHarrie Place in Baldwinsville.

The family will greet friends on Friday, April 24th from 1-2 pm at the United Presbyterian Church, Cortland with a celebration of life service to follow at 2pm. Burial will be at the Cortland Rural Cemetery

* To offer condolences visit www.wrightbeard.com
- See more at: http://www.wright-beard.com/tribute/details/3028/search-result/obituary.html#tribute-start

An interview with Richard at the time of his 100th birthday appeared on an Internet site.  In it he relates his experiences in World War II.  Richard was the oldest know surviving Potter Man at the time of his death.  The interview can be seen at:
           http://www.cnycentral.com/news/story.aspx?id=1065345#.VTKZApODve0

Ken Haser, `40 
On September 2, 2014 of Bethesda, Maryland. Husband of the late Elizabeth Murphy Haser. Beloved father of Kathleen Haser, Jim Haser, John Haser and his wife Diane, Susan Biggs and her husband Gary, Tom Haser, Dan Haser and his wife Shelly; grandfather of Mark, Bethany, Erin, Inga, Valerie, Luba and Nadia. Memorial Contribution may be made to the Rockville Nursing Home 303 Adclare Road Rockville, Maryland 20850.  Ken's death reported in UAlb Alumni Magazine, Spring 2015.

Don Makely, `60
  Donald Makely, Medusa, NY, died Friday, June 14, 2013. Born Wallace Donald Makely on July 13, 1938, he was youngest son of the late Wallace and Dorothy (Wood) Makely. He is survived by his sister, Anna Seal; and brother, Robert Makely; he also leaves behind seven children, Ken Makely, Sam Makely, Terry Makely, Melissa Crowther, Andy Makely, Tim Makely, Tom Makely; 16 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. The majority of his adult life, he had three jobs: teacher, negotiator and farmer. A graduate of Greenville Central School (1955) and the NY State University at Albany, he also earned two masters degrees during his teaching career. Until retirement, he taught sciences in the Albany school system and served as a negotiator for the New York State United Teachers Union. Don believed in life-long learning and encouraged the pursuit of higher education. Still, at the core, his truest passion was farming. Throughout his life he was dedicated to keeping the family farm up and running. In Oak Hill, where he lived most of his life, he taught his children and others the intrinsic value of the land, and instilled the importance of hard work. His family will always be grateful for those lessons and the privilege of experiencing them first hand. In accordance with his request, Donny has been cremated. All who wish to share remembrances may visit the family at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 Route 81, Greenville, on Thursday, July 18 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Light a candle at ajcunninghamfh.com.  Don's death reported in UAlb Alumni Magazine, Spring 2015.

Makely, Donald OAK HILL Donald Makely, died Friday, June 14, 2013. Born Wallace Donald Makely on July 13, 1938, he was youngest son of the late Wallace and Dorothy (Wood) Makely. He is survived by his sister, Anna Seal; and brother, Robert Makely; he also leaves behind seven children, Ken Makely, Sam Makely, Terry Makely, Melissa Crowther, Andy Makely, Tim Makely, Tom Makely; 16 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. The majority of his adult life, he had three jobs: teacher, negotiator and farmer. A graduate of Greenville Central School (1955) and the NY State University at Albany, he also earned two masters degrees during his teaching career. Until retirement, he taught sciences in the Albany school system and served as a negotiator for the New York State United Teachers Union. Don believed in life-long learning and encouraged the pursuit of higher education. Still, at the core, his truest passion was farming. Throughout his life he was dedicated to keeping the family farm up and running. In Oak Hill, where he lived most of his life, he taught his children and others the intrinsic value of the land, and instilled the importance of hard work. His family will always be grateful for those lessons and the privilege of experiencing them first hand. In accordance with his request, Donny has been cremated. All who wish to share remembrances may visit the family at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 Route 81, Greenville, on Thursday, July 18 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Light a candle at ajcunninghamfh.com - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/timesunion-albany/obituary.aspx?n=donald-makely&pid=165384608&fhid=27339#sthash.Yhr1Gekr.dpuf
Makely, Donald OAK HILL Donald Makely, died Friday, June 14, 2013. Born Wallace Donald Makely on July 13, 1938, he was youngest son of the late Wallace and Dorothy (Wood) Makely. He is survived by his sister, Anna Seal; and brother, Robert Makely; he also leaves behind seven children, Ken Makely, Sam Makely, Terry Makely, Melissa Crowther, Andy Makely, Tim Makely, Tom Makely; 16 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. The majority of his adult life, he had three jobs: teacher, negotiator and farmer. A graduate of Greenville Central School (1955) and the NY State University at Albany, he also earned two masters degrees during his teaching career. Until retirement, he taught sciences in the Albany school system and served as a negotiator for the New York State United Teachers Union. Don believed in life-long learning and encouraged the pursuit of higher education. Still, at the core, his truest passion was farming. Throughout his life he was dedicated to keeping the family farm up and running. In Oak Hill, where he lived most of his life, he taught his children and others the intrinsic value of the land, and instilled the importance of hard work. His family will always be grateful for those lessons and the privilege of experiencing them first hand. In accordance with his request, Donny has been cremated. All who wish to share remembrances may visit the family at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 Route 81, Greenville, on Thursday, July 18 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Light a candle at ajcunninghamfh.com - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/timesunion-albany/obituary.aspx?n=donald-makely&pid=165384608&fhid=27339#sthash.Yhr1Gekr.dpuf

March 10, 2015:  In Memoriam:
Arthur C. Batty, `52, 
84, of Johnstown, NY, passed away suddenly on March 5, 2015 at Ellis Hospital with his loving Battyfamily by his side. Family was Arthur's pride and joy. He also received great satisfaction from helping other people. Arthur was born on Aug. 25, 1930 to the late Wilfred F. Batty and Helen Benedict in Gloversville, NY. On September 12, 1953, he married the love of his life for 61 years, Marilyn R. Tomek Batty. He was a graduate of Gloversville High School and obtained his BA in education/English and history from the State University of New York. Arthur went on to get his master's degree in administration from the State University. He was a proud veteran who joined the U.S. Naval Reserves which became active duty during the Korean War Era. He taught English and history at Estee Jr. High School, Babylon High School, Knox Junior High School and Johnstown High School until 1967, and also was the director of Adult Education for the GJSD. He went on to be the Director of Extension and Community Services at FMCC for three years. All of these experiences lead Arthur to his first administration job as assistant principal at Knox Junior High School and then Principal of Johnstown High School, until his retirement in 1985. Some of the things near to his heart were being class advisor, coaching baseball and wrestling and instructing ballroom dance. After retirement, Arthur stayed active in education and took multiple interim positions. He was most proud of his involvement in serving as the Director of the 21st Century Community Learning Center for all of Fulton and Montgomery County School Districts. Some of the things Arthur enjoyed most were the Rotary Club, Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Fulton County, Fulton County Cooperative Extension, Johnstown Hospital Board of Directors, Technical Advisory Board at FMCC, Concordia German-American Singing Society, L. Allegro Ballroom Dance and Cotillion Dance Society. His favorite hobbies outside of being with family and friends were; ballroom dancing, golf, poker, canoeing and fishing. Arthur truly loved every moment spent with his family and even built an addition on his house to accommodate the growing family he loved so much. He would often say It makes my day, my week, and my year, when everyone is here. Arthur leaves behind his loving wife, Marilyn Batty; his children, Mark C. Batty (Amy), Lisa Wager (Joe), Linda C. Macklin (Michael), Michael Batty (Monique); his grandchildren, Jeremy and Courtney Batty, Hailey Dunlap, Joe, Jamie and Jenna Wager, Alexandra, Joseph and Vincent Ruggeri, Ben, Ross, Jake and Max Batty. Arthur also leaves behind three beloved great-grandchildren, Crickett, Finn and Isla. The family invites relatives and friends to attend a visitation from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at St. John's Episcopal Church, 1 North Market St., Johnstown, NY 12095. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday at 11 a.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church with the Rev. Laurie Garramone to preside over all services. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Arthur's memory to The Arthur C. Batty Memorial Scholarship Fund. Donations can be mailed to Ehle and Barnett Family Funeral Home, LLC., 15 N. William Street, Johnstown, NY 12095 or can be brought to any services held. Please visit and sign the family's guestbook at www.ebffh.com.  Ehle Funeral Home, 15 N William St Johnstown, NY 12095  (518) 762-8681  Published in The Daily Gazette Co. on Mar. 7, 2015

Robert D. Keel, `55, YARDLEY, Pa. Robert Donald Keel passed away January 29, 2015. Was born January 20, 1931 in Syracuse, N.Y. to the late Robert Ehl Keel and Mabel Warne Keel. Growing up in the Albany, N.Y. area, he was a graduate of Christian Brothers Academy in Albany (1948) and a graduate of the State University of New York at Albany (cum laude, 1955, double major in English Literature and History). His college studies were interrupted when he was activated into the United States Marine Corp in 1950, serving as an operational sergeant in fire direction control in Korea from 1951-1952. Upon his return from combat, Robert Donald Keel married Patricia Ann Klahr on June 21, 1952. Their son, Robert Donald Keel Jr., was born in 1953. Robert D. Keel Sr. entered the Philadelphia Divinity School in 1955, at which time their daughter, Stacy Caedmon Keel, was born in 1957. Robert graduated in 1958 with a Masters of Divinity. He was ordained deacon by the Bishop of Albany, Frederick Lehrle Barry, at the Cathedral of All Saints in Albany on May 31, 1958. Robert first served as Rector of Trinity and St. Michael's Church, Middleville, N.Y., where he was ordained a priest by the Bishop of Albany, Frederick Lehrle Barry, on December 13, 1958. A second daughter, Hillary Ann Keel, was born in 1959. He then served as rector for 5 years at Grace Church in Canton, N.Y. He was rector of St. John's Church, Lower Merion in Bala Cynwyd, Pa. from 1965 to 1984, during which time he also served as Dean of the Merion Deanery. Later he became the rector of Trinity Church, in Buckingham, Pa. from 1984 to 1995. Robert and his wife, Patricia, retired to their home in Lackawaxen, Pa. where they lived from 1995-2012. Robert D. Keel was an avid hiker, camper, and canoeist. He loved nature, and hiked extensively, including the Long Trail and the Appalachian Trail. He is often remembered for camping trips he took with his family and friends, as well as with church groups. He felt privileged and honored to be a priest, to take part in the lives of so many. He is also remembered for his sermons, his love of literature, his mentoring of youth in his parish youth groups and his disciplined spiritual practice. In retrospect, he emphasized how grateful he was for his fortunate life. He is predeceased by his son, Robert Donald Keel, Jr., and survived by his wife, Patricia of Yardley, Pa.; his sister, Kay (John) Geurtze of Selkirk, N.Y.; his brother, Richard (Susan) of Selkirk, N.Y.; by his daughters, Stacy Adams (Steven) of Yardley, Pa., Hillary Keel (Gerhard Strohmeier) of Brooklyn, N.Y.; and her children, Paul Robert Strohmeier and Sophie Gertrude Strohmeier of Vienna, Austria. He is also survived by nephews, Steven, Michael and David Keel, Daniel, William Wakeman and many cousins. Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on February 14, 2015 at Trinity Church Buckingham. Burial at Memory Gardens in Colonie, N.Y., date to be announced. Donations made to: https:// www.episcopalrelief.org.

Published in Albany Times Union on Feb. 12, 2015

January 25, 2015 (posted March 10, 2015):
Finnen honored for 50 years at Lafayette-Lehigh Basketball game.  See following link for YouTube presentation: http://youtu.be/QyY0Wvos6-s

January 20, 2015: In Memoriam:

Richard Terzian, 90, of Latham, Potter Club `53, beloved husband of the late Barbara Mendoza Terzian, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2015, at his home in Latham. Born in Troy, he was the son of the late Karekin and TerzianSeranoosh (Eyjian) Terzian. Richard married his wife, Barbara Mendoza, on August 8, 1959 and the two shared 49 years of marriage prior to her passing on April 19, 2008. He was a high school math teacher serving several school districts in the Capital Region. He has resided in Latham since 1970. Richard had a love of golf, art, reading, and talking politics. Survivors include his loving son, Peter Terzian and his husband, Caleb Crain, of Brooklyn; his sister, Anna Gabaldon; niece, Sherry Edwards; and nephews, Gary Minerley and Richard Gabaldon. He is also survived by several grand- nieces and nephews. Richard was predeceased by his sister, Alice Minerley. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, January 23, 2015, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Peter's Armenian Apostolic Church, 100 Troy-Schenectady Road, Watervliet. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Thursday, January 22, 2015, from 5 until 7 p.m. at the Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Road, Latham. Interment will be in Elmwood Cemetery, Troy. Donations to the Community Hospice, 445 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205, or the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, 965 Albany Shaker Road, Latham, NY 12110, in memory of Richard Terzian, would be appreciated. For directions, information or to light a memory candle for the family please visit dufresneandcavanaugh.com.  Published in Albany Times Union on Jan. 20, 2015 - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/timesunion-albany/obituary.aspx?n=richard-terzian&pid=173905765&fhid=4777&eid=sp_shareobit#sthash.0tE7mFmB.dpuf

Terzian, Richard LATHAM Richard Terzian, 90, of Latham, beloved husband of the late Barbara Mendoza Terzian, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2015, at his home in Latham. Born in Troy, he was the son of the late Karekin and Seranoosh (Eyjian) Terzian. Richard married his wife, Barbara Mendoza, on August 8, 1959 and the two shared 49 years of marriage prior to her passing on April 19, 2008. He was a high school math teacher serving several school districts in the Capital Region. He has resided in Latham since 1970. Richard had a love of golf, art, reading, and talking politics. Survivors include his loving son, Peter Terzian and his husband, Caleb Crain, of Brooklyn; his sister, Anna Gabaldon; niece, Sherry Edwards; and nephews, Gary Minerley and Richard Gabaldon. He is also survived by several grand- nieces and nephews. Richard was predeceased by his sister, Alice Minerley. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, January 23, 2015, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Peter's Armenian Apostolic Church, 100 Troy-Schenectady Road, Watervliet. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Thursday, January 22, 2015, from 5 until 7 p.m. at the Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Road, Latham. Interment will be in Elmwood Cemetery, Troy. Donations to the Community Hospice, 445 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205, or the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, 965 Albany Shaker Road, Latham, NY 12110, in memory of Richard Terzian, would be appreciated. For directions, information or to light a memory candle for the family please visit dufresneandcavanaugh.com.
Published in Albany Times Union on Jan. 20, 2015 - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/timesunion-albany/obituary.aspx?n=richard-terzian&pid=173905765&fhid=4777&eid=sp_shareobit#sthash.0tE7mFmB.dpuf

January 4, 2015:  New Year's greeting to all Pottermen!  Keep sending your news and we will try to keep you posted.