Cannon Funeral Home

09/29/2025

Gail A. Heinzl

Schenectady – Gail Ann Heinzl, 77 of Ballston Spa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. She was born on August 11, 1948 to the late Frederick Clermont and Arlene (Cole) Terwilliger. She was a 1966 graduate of Linton High School.

Gail worked as a bus driver for many years for the Scotia-Glenville School District where she eventually retired from. She enjoyed traveling, going out to eat and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Gail is predeceased by her parents, and her sisters Diane Clark and Jill Coyne. She is survived by her children Peter (Darcy) Jones, her daughter Jennifer (Ronald) Martell, her sisters Linda Levy, and Joanne Terwilliger, her grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

There will be a Graveside Service held on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 10 am at Memory Gardens, 983 Watervliet Shaker Rd., Colonie.

Arrangements are by Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie. Donations made be made in Gail’s name to Community Hospice, 445 New Karner Rd., Albany, NY 12205, www.communityhospice.org. To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit www.cannonfuneral.com.

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09/26/2025

Scott A. LedDuke

LOUDONVILLE – Scott A. LedDuke, 45, passed away from a heart attack on Wednesday, Sept. 24. His family is devastated by his sudden passing, but they take comfort knowing Scott left this world doing what he loved most—fishing offshore with his brother. Earlier that day, he had described it as one of the best tuna trips of his life.

Scott was born July 27, 1980, in Albany to Chick and the late Donald LedDuke. He grew up in the Capital Region and graduated from Clayton A. Bouton High School in 1998. A devoted husband and loving father, Scott was also an exceptional skier, avid fisherman and diehard New York Giants fan. He was well-known for his love of music — his favorites included the Grateful Dead, Willie Nelson, Phish and more artists across all genres than there is room to print — and he cherished time outdoors. He was especially proud of his garden. His friends and family will remember Scott for his generosity and willingness to help those he cared for.

Scott loved his family immensely. He enjoyed traveling with his wife — who was his high school sweetheart of 27 years — and daughters and sharing adventures with them. The family feels blessed to have memories of an unforgettable trip to Europe earlier this year.

He is survived by his mother, Chick; his wife, Lisa; his four daughters, Natalie, Amelia, Juliette, and Phoebe; his brothers, Spencer (Melissa) and Slade (Meghan); his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Barbara and Ron Tamburri; his brother-in-law, RJ Tamburri; his nieces and nephews; and his faithful dog, Trixie. He was predeceased by his father, Donald “Don” LedDuke, and his older brother, Donald Jr.

Visitation hours will be held Tuesday, Sept. 30, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at St. Pius X Church in Loudonville. A funeral service will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to two organizations of great importance to Scott: Folds of Honor New York, 111 Washington Ave, Suite 501 Albany, NY 12210 or Magic Alpine Club Youth Programs, C/O Magic Mountain, PO Box 188 Londonderry, VT 05148.

To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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09/25/2025

Peter A. Mattioli

SCHENECTADY – Peter A. Mattioli, 79, of Schenectady, passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025 at the VA Hospital in Albany.

He was born in Bronx, NY and was the son of the late Orlando and Olga Mattioli. Peter proudly served his country in the US Army. He was an active member of William F. Wigand VFW Post 8444. Pete enjoyed painting, leathercraft and driving his friends around town. He was a car and motorcycle enthusiast. Peter worked at the VA hospital for eight years.

He is the father of Jeffrey Mattioli. Peter is the brother of Terry (Linda) Mattioli and Carolyn Meyer (Albert Bergami). Peter is the uncle of Lisa (Dr. Anthony) Katz of AZ, Daniel Mattioli (wife) of AZ, Denise Barbera Ramsay, Lonna (Gary) Tocco of Las Vegas, NV, Edward (Suzanne) Meyer, Matthew Meyer, Natalie Meyer, and Abigail (Dr. James) Faraci. Peter is the grandfather of Heather Allen, Samantha Barton, Paedyn Mattioli Wright, and Zoe Mattioli.

Visitation will be Monday from 10 to 11 am at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave. Colonie. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am officiated by the family’s priest, Father Carlino. Interment will be in Saratoga National VA Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to VFW Post 344, 370 Central Ave., Albany, NY 12206.

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09/24/2025

Monica M. Williamson

Monica Marjorie Williamson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2025, in Schenectady, NY, surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 1, 1949, in Cohoes, NY, Monica grew up in Round Lake and attended Shenendehowa High School.

She was the daughter of Marjorie Rovelli and Owen Murray, both of whom predeceased her—Marjorie in 1996 and Owen in 1984.

Monica was married to the love of her life, Ross R. Williamson, for over 50 years. Together they built a life filled with laughter, resilience, and deep devotion to family. She was the proud mother of four children: Dianne Roberson (with her partner Mike), Marylou Ennis, Shannon Lemus Rodriguez (with her husband Luis), and Ross Joseph (RJ) Williamson.

Her greatest joy came from her grandchildren: Brian Forster, Ben Roberson, Ryley Ennis, Cade Ponce Williamson, Alexis Ponce Williamson, Hayley Williamson, Jayden Williamson, and the late Connor Ennis, whose memory she held close to her heart.

Monica was one of seven siblings and shared a lifelong bond with each of them. She was predeceased by her sisters Dianne Luciano (2025) and Donna Bannister (2005), and is survived by Elizabeth LaTulipe—her best friend and confidante—Owen J. Murray, Kim Raymond, and Michael Murray. She was also blessed with a large extended family of in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins who brought her great joy.

Known for her fierce love and loyalty, Monica forged unique and special relationships with each of her children and grandchildren. She was a competitive spirit—especially when it came to card games—and never hesitated to play to win, even against the grandkids. She loved spending time at bingo, hosting coffee chats, and gathering family around the dinner table at her home.

Her home was the go-to place, filled with warmth, laughter, and the kind of comfort only Monica could provide. Though she was a picky eater, she cherished meals shared with family and the simple joy of being together.

Monica’s strength, stubbornness, and magnetic personality made her unforgettable. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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09/23/2025

David J. Spina

Glenville – David James Spina, 76, passed away peacefully at home on September 20, 2025. He was born July 9, 1949, to the late James A. and Angeline (Tersigni) Spina of Schenectady.

Dave was a 1967 graduate of Bishop Gibbons High School. He attended St. John’s University and became a pharmacist. He worked in healthcare his whole life, retiring from the MVP group in 2015. He maintained ties with the group until 2022, and that year he became a property manager for the Albany Center for Economic Success, a business incubator.

He liked to ski, sail and run. He competed in many challenging events as a runner. Dave was an accomplished woodworker and designed many complex pieces of furniture and household items which will be cherished by his family. He was a personal trainer and avid sports fan; he followed the New York Yankees throughout his life.

Aside from his hobbies, he enjoyed spending time with his partner Kimberly’s grandchildren Kinley and Delaney, and her daughter Meaghan (Jonathon) Durst.

Dave is predeceased by his parents and a sister, Marlene. He is survived by his daughter, Michelle, of Cohoes, his partner Kimberly L. Goodwin of Glenville and Land O’Lakes, FL, his sisters Diane (Michael) Babin of Schenectady and the Villages, FL, Mary (Cory) Wheeler of Durango, CO, his brother Matthew (Donna Tarbania) Spina of Buffalo, NY, nieces Christine (Michael) Belus of Buffalo, Elizabeth (Jonathon Miller) Spina of Pittsford, NY, nephews Steven (Melissa) Babin of Mooresville, NC, and S. Ian Tarbania of Buffalo, NY and many cousins and dear friends including those who comforted him with their presence in his final days.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025 from 4 pm to 7 pm with a Memorial Service at 6 pm at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie. Memorial contributions can be made in David’s name to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, www.cancer.org. To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit www.cannonfuneral.com.

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09/19/2025

Joseph M. Eworonsky

COLONIE – Joseph M. Eworonsky, 67, of Colonie, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday September 17, 2025 at his residence. He was born in Albany and was the son of the late Joseph M. and Mary Crisafulli Eworonsky Sr. Joe had worked for many years with the Town of Colonie.

Joe was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a member and Past Commander of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 1520, a lifetime member of the Polish American Citizens Club, a member of the Night Owls, West Albany Rod & Gun Club, Men’s Dart League and Caroga Lake Fish & Game. Joe and Patty enjoyed their summers at Pine Lake.

Joe is survived by his wife Patty Weinlein Eworonsky and his daughter Melissa (Tim) Bartz. He is the brother of Katherine Stamoulis, Christine Benedict, Peter (Leigh) Eworonsky and the late Thomas Eworonsky. He is the cherished Poppy of Teagan and Everly. Joe is the uncle of Andrew Eworonsky and Steven Stamoulis.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Joe’s family on Monday from 4 to 7 pm at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave. Colonie. A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday at 12 noon at the Joseph E. Zaloga American Legion Post, 4 Everett Rd. Ext. Colonie. Memorial contributions may be made to Sons of the American Legion Squadron 1520, 4 Everett Rd. Albany, NY 12205.

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09/15/2025

Jennifer L. Helferich

BRUNSWICK – Jennifer Lynne Helferich, 47, of Brunswick, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 14, 2025 at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Schenectady and is the beloved daughter of James and Kathleen Dunn Helferich. Jennifer was a 1995 graduate of Colonie High School. She earned her Bachelor’s degrees at UAlbany and her Master’s of Pharmacology degree at University at Buffalo. Jennifer was a longtime, dedicated employee of Southwestern Vermont Medical Center where she served as the Assistant Director Revenue.

She was an avid Buffalo Bills fan. She enjoyed playing tennis, baking and being a proud Soccer Mom.

Jennifer is survived by her cherished daughter Kaitlyn Willett. She is the sister of James P. (Alieca) Helferich and Julie Olmsted. She is the aunt of James and Sean Helferich, Jaxen, Ayla and Jaze Olmsted. Several aunts, uncles and cousins also survive.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Jennifer’s family on Thursday from 4 to 7 pm at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie. Funeral services will be Friday morning at 10:00 am at the funeral home. Interment will follow at St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands.

In keeping with Jennifer’s wishes, kindly consider donating blood through the American Red Cross for those struggling with leukemia and blood disorders. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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09/15/2025

Ralph "Choco" Ponce

Ralph “Choco” Ponce

June 3, 1964 – September 10, 2025

With broken hearts, we share the sudden passing of Ralph “Choco” Ponce, 61, on September 10, 2025, in Schenectady, New York. Born on June 3, 1964, in Los Angeles, California, Ralph lived a life full of love, laughter, and music, leaving a lasting impact on everyone blessed to know him.

For more than 40 years, Ralph dedicated himself to his career at McDonald’s, where he not only worked hard but also built countless friendships that became like family. His kindness, loyalty, and humor made him unforgettable to coworkers and customers alike.

Ralph had a heart larger than life. His love for music was a reflection of his soul—he could often be found playing the harmonica, guitar, or piano, filling any space with joy and rhythm. He was known for his quick wit, his ability to make anyone laugh, and the way he lit up every room he walked into. To family and friends, he wasn’t just the life of the party—he was the life of their hearts.

Ralph was a devoted son to his mother, Angie Compton, and father, George Ponce, and he held close the memory of his stepfather, Dean Compton, and infant brother, George Ponce. He was a loving brother to Debra Rodriguez (Lupe), Robert Ponce (Gloria), Georgeanna Navarette, Sandra Tovar (Raul), and John Ponce. His love for his family ran deep and wide, stretching across generations.

He leaves behind a proud and cherished legacy through his children: Sarah Jones; Angelina Ponce (Scottie Holcombe); John Robert Ponce (Falisha Ali); stepdaughter, Cailyn Tilley; and daughter-in-law, Christina Tilley. Ralph’s greatest joy was being “Papa” to his grandchildren—Jordyn Sheffield, Jayden Jones, Salice Holcombe, Scottie Holcombe, Brayden Dorsey, and Aaliyah Holcombe—each of whom he adored beyond measure. He is also remembered with love by his former wife, Beth Ponce.

Ralph was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews and a loyal friend whose generosity and faith in God touched countless lives. His quiet strength, devotion to family, and love for laughter and music will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ralph’s life on September 28, 2025, at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Avenue. A Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00 PM.

Though his time with us was cut far too short, Ralph “Choco” Ponce leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and music that will continue to inspire and comfort us all.

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09/12/2025

Audrey J. Kelly

COLONIE – Audrey J. Kelly, 88, of Colonie, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at Evergreen Commons Nursing Center.

She was born in Albany and was the daughter of the late Charles and Elizabeth Young. Audrey was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Kathleen J. Kelly.

She enjoyed working at the former Nut Factory at the Empire State Plaza and at Hoffman’s Playland. Audrey was later employed for many years at the Teresian House in Albany. She was a member of the Joseph Zaloga American Legion Post Ladies Auxiliary, where she enjoyed singing karaoke with her friends. Audrey enjoyed all holiday and family gatherings, where she would often break out her kazoo. She was happiest when she was surrounded by her cherished family and friends, especially her grandsons and great-grandsons.

Audrey is the devoted mother of Edward (Clarisse) Kelly. She is the cherished grandmother of Edward Kelly Jr., Ryan (Danielle) Kelly and Sean Kelly. Audrey is the great grandmother of Ryan Jr. and Grayson. She is the sister of the late Shirley (Robert) White and Betty (Joseph) Farrell. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be Thursday at 11:00 AM at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave, Colonie. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Audrey’s family on Wednesday from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home. Interment will be at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org). To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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09/11/2025

Domenic A. Barbalace

Niskayuna - Domenic A Barbalace,78, passed away Friday, September 5, 2025 in the company of family at the Albany Straton VA Hospital.

He was born in Rosarno Reggio Calabria, Italy. He was the eldest son of the late Vincent Barbalace Sr. and Pasqualina (D'Abbraccio) Barbalace. He is survived by his brother Frank Barbalace and sister Rose Rossi; predeceased by his brothers Santo and Vincent Barbalace Jr.

Domenic came to the US in 1954. He was a decorated service member, enlisting in the US Army in 1966 his tour included a deployment to Vietnam having received the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. Domenic was a dedicated civil servant having spent 35 years with the US Postal Service. In earlier years, he was active with the Fire Police and was a lifetime member of the DAV.

He was a beloved father of three, Vincent Barbalace, Christina (Donald) Bender, and Michael (Melissa) Barbalace. His grandchildren include Ashley, Alicia, Dana (Stephen S.), Kaylee (Trevor G.), Carleena, Gina, Daniel, and Domenic. His family continues to grow with two beautiful great-grandchildren Simon & Viola, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Domenic and family have been very fortunate to have Leela Persaud for many years of care. Domenic was loved by many and truly will be missed.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Domenic’s family on Monday from 4 to 7 pm at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave. Colonie. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 10:00 am at Christ the King Church, Sumter Ave. Westmere. Burial will follow at Saratoga National VA Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Veterans Miracle Center (www.vmcalbany.org). To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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09/11/2025

Today marks 24 years since the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Though time has passed, the weight of that day and the emotions it carries remain just as strong. We hold close in our hearts the memory of those we lost and extend our love to all who continue to feel the pain of that loss. We will never forget.

09/04/2025

Lester J. Hynes

Albany - Lester John Hynes of Albany passed away peacefully after an extended illness on September 3, 2025. Born October 17th, 1942 to his parents Thomas and Julia (nee Murphy) Hynes in Brooklyn, New York.

Les attended historic PS39 for grammar school and graduated from John Jay High School in 1960. After High School he worked for a Wall Street Law Firm, Sherman and Sterling in the Legal Document Department. Joining the Naval Reserve in 1961, he volunteered for the submarine service. From 1963 to 1965 he served aboard the USS Clamagore (SS-343) and qualified in submarine service in 1964, finishing his Naval service in 1968.

He returned after active service working at the Law Firm until being accepted to the Culinary Institute of American in New Haven, Connecticut.

Les married while in school to the love of his life, Monique Janson in August of 1967.

Graduating with honors in 1968, he and Monique managed the Institute of Man and Science in Rensselaerville, New York. He was recruited to the University of Albany as Manager of the Faculty Dining Room and Banquet Operations and subsequently promoted to the Director of Cash Sales for the University. Leaving after nearly 20 years, he formed a catering company, The Golden Toque. He also served as Manager of Mallozzi’s Banquet House in Schenectady and Chaucer’s Banquet House in Clifton Park. Les then became the owner of Farnham’s Larkin Restaurant in Albany.

Les has been a 50 year Eucharistic Minister to three parishes in the Albany Diocese, on the Dean Advisory Panel at Schenectady County Community College for Culinary Arts, a Mentor for the Mentor Program at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, as well as a Member of the Rotary Club and American Legion Post.

Les enjoyed time spent with his family and many vacations in Wells Beach, Maine.

He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Julie, his wife Monique in 2012 and son Michael in 2017.

He is survived by his brother Peter (Anne) of Port Charlotte, Florida, daughter-in-law Valerie Hynes of Niskayuna, son John (Beth) of South Carolina, nephew Kevin Hynes of Fort Myers, Florida, granddaughters Lauren Hynes-Mason (Carl) of Colonie and Rian Hynes of South Carolina, grandson Devon Purzycki of South Carolina, and great granddaughter Gianna Mason of Colonie.

The family would like to acknowledge and thank Les’ neighbor and good friend, Peter McDermott and his caregiver, Vanessa Moulton, as well as his entire care team at Community Hospice for their compassion and support.

Calling hours will be held at the Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie on Tuesday from 5 to 7 pm. A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated on Wednesday morning at 10:30 at Mater Christi Parish, 40 Hopewell Street, Albany.

Memorial donations can be made in Les’ memory to The Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center, 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, New York 12208.

Rite of Committal will be held at Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, New York at a later date.

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