Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Homes

05/08/2026

Robert R. Ropeter

Robert R. Ropeter, 84, of Amsterdam, NY passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026. Born in Gloversville, NY, on April 23, 1941, Robert was the son of the late Robert W. and Blanche Veeder Ropeter. He was raised in the close-knit community of Johnstown, where he developed the work ethic and character that would guide his life.

A proud graduate of the Johnstown High School Class of 1960, Robert soon answered the call to serve his country. From 1961 to 1965, Robert served with honor in the United States Coast Guard during the Vietnam War. During his time in the service, he displayed a commitment to excellence, graduating from the Coast Guard Institute. His years at sea remained a point of great pride throughout his life.

Upon returning to civilian life, Robert brought his technical skills to General Electric in Schenectady. He spent decades as a skilled machinist, contributing to the region’s industrial legacy until his well-deserved retirement in 1996.

Robert has now been reunited with his beloved wife, Joan M. Ropeter, who predeceased him. Their bond was one of deep affection, and he is finally at home by her side.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Fairview Cemetery in Amsterdam at 11AM.

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05/06/2026

Rita C. Peters RN

View Rita C. Peters RN's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/05/2026

Michael J. Smykla

Michael J Smykla, 68, of Mayfield passed away peacefully at home on Friday, April 24, 2026. Born June 22nd, 1957 in Lowville, New York. He was the son of the late Joseph and Marian Smykla.

Michael worked as a communication technician for Pioneer Communications for 30 plus years and took great pride in his work and continued education in his career field.

As a child, Mike loves spending summers at their family camp on the Tughill Plateau, as well as motorcycle riding and hunting. He carried those loves into adulthood and was a very passionate hunter. He also spent summers riding motorcycles with friends. Michael loved the outdoors very much. He was very passionate about sports and rarely missed a New York Giants, Knick's or Yankee game.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa and son Shane of Mayfield, New York as well as his sister, Kathleen LaVancha, brother Adam and wife, Michelle Smykla. Mike is also survived by nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by wife Merilee, son, Brandon Smykla and brother-in-law, Ronald LeVancha and his parents.

A memorial service to celebrate Mike's life will be held at a time to be announced at St. John's Episcopal church. 1 North Market Street, Johnstown, NY, with the Rev. Laurie Garamone officiating. Burial will be private, and at the convenience of his family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Mike's memory to St. John's Episcopal Church general fund, 1 North Market Street Johnstown, New York, 12095.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Home.

View Michael J. Smykla's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/01/2026

Donald "Pops" G. Pearlman

Amsterdam- Donald "Pops" G. Pearlman, 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 with his loving wife by his side. He was the son of the late Myer and Irene Pearlman. Donald was the loving husband to Susan A. Cotton-Pearlman. They were married 2 years and one month.

After graduating from high school, Pops enlisted in the United States Army, where he severed proudly until his honorable discharge. He went on to work as a barber but was best known as a Drummer.

Pops loved listening to music and playing the drums. He was an avid collector of sunglasses and hoodies. Pops loved his first and only trip to the mall where he experienced the now dreaded massage chair. Most of all, he cherished all the time he spent making memories with his beloved wife, Susan.

In addition to his wife, Pops is survived by many loving family members and friends.

A public visitation will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 10:00am to 11:00am at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, New York 12010 with a celebration of life to begin at 11:00am at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow the service at Fairview Cemetery, Amsterdam, New York.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Donald's name to Wilkinson Residential Health Care Facility or a charity of your choice.

View Donald G. Pearlman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/30/2026

Caitlyn Unger and Pastor Tom Flander representing Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Homes at Mountain Valley Hospice, Evening of Remembrance. We are proud to work hand in hand with MVH to ensure dignified final wishes. We appreciate what you do!

04/29/2026

Brian Robert Wilson

Brian Robert Wilson, 64, passed away peacefully at home with his loving family by his side on Saturday, April 25, 2026. He was born and raised in Amsterdam, New York, to the late Frederick and Carol Wilson. Brian was the beloved husband to Smyrna R. Wilson.

After graduating high school, Brian went on to enlist in the United States Army National Guard, where he served proudly until his honorable discharge. He was a very diligent and handy man, spending most of his career as a laborer. Whether he was getting paid at work or simply helping out family or friends, Brian was always willing to lend a helping hand. Moving, painting, cleaning, fixing things around the house, you name it. Call him and he would show up. He went on to work for Mayflower Movers in Albany, New York until his retirement.

Brian was a big family man and loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed watching sports and going to games, he LOVED the Dallas Cowboys! Brian also enjoyed playing cards with friends and family. He was the fun and loving uncle that everyone gravitated towards. The infamous Uncle B! His welcoming energy and sense of humor made him easy to love. While being very loving and charming, Brian was also a fearless protector.

In addition to his loving wife, Brian is survived by his sons; Brian L. Wilson II, Desmond J. Wilson, Jered J.A. Wilson; daughters, Miranda M. Moss-Trentini and Alexandria R. Zoltowski; brothers, Fred Wilson, Jamie Wilson, and Ricky Burton; sisters, Joyce (Johnny Mantilla) Wilson, Gertrude (Mark Branch) Wilson, Dawna (Patrick Whelly) Wilson, Sonia Wilson, Elaine (Robert Baker) Wilson, and Bridget O'Shaughnessy; 10 grandchildren; and many many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Brian is predeceased by his brothers; David Wilson, Laurence Wilson, and Bruce O'Shaugnessy; and his sister, Carol Martin.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to his sisters, Dawna and Bridget; and niece, Cereda, for their dedicated care to Brian in his final days.

A celebration of life is being held on Sunday, May 17, 2026 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm at the Century Club, 130 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, New York 12010.

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04/28/2026

Elizabeth "Betty" Jane Steiger

Elizabeth “Betty” Jane Steiger, 89, was called home on April 23, 2026, with her family by her side. She is now reunited with her beloved husband of 61 years, Henry.

Born on January 31, 1937, in Amsterdam, New York, she was the daughter of the late Carlos and Laura (Spoor) Burroughs. On November 12, 1955, she married Henry Eugene Steiger, with whom she shared a lifetime of love. Together, they owned and operated Sonnenberg Farm, their family dairy business in the Town of Glen, for over 50 years. Betty managed the business operations and bookkeeping, playing an essential role in the farm’s success.

Betty was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend whose life centered on caring for others. She was known for her warm hospitality, often hosting family picnics, preparing meals for guests, and creating a welcoming home for all who visited. She found joy in tending her garden, working on puzzles, painting, listening to her record collection, and caring for the many beloved poodles she had throughout her life.

Betty is survived by her four children: Elizabeth (Michael) Korona, Deacon Larry (Carol) Steiger, Susan Case, and Jeffrey (Christine) Steiger; fifteen grandchildren: Kristen, Branden, Kevin, Samantha, Emily, Joel, Bradley, Jacqueline, Dezaree, Racquel, Zachary, Kaleb, Garrett, Matthew, and Amanda; twenty-one great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. She is also survived by her brother, Richard “Dicky” Burroughs, as well as several beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Betty was predeceased by her husband, Henry Steiger; her daughter, Joan Steiger; her siblings, Stanley Burroughs, Marjorie St. Andrews, Eileen Rosatell, Lawrence “Buzzy” Burroughs, and James “Jimmy” Burroughs; and her son-in-law, Menzo Case.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Pine Grove Cemetery in Tribes Hill, New York.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Homes, 171 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam, NY 12010

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Town of Glen Fire Department, 134 Auriesville Rd, Fultonville, NY 12072.

View Elizabeth "Betty" Jane Steiger's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/26/2026

Our team at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Homes would like to extend our deepest condolences to the Fulton and Montogomery Counties Sheriffs Offices, and the family and friends of 911 Dispatcher #264, Rob Shang. Please know that our community is with you during this difficult time. Rest in Peace Rob and thank you for your service.

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." - Mahatma Gandhi

03/23/2026

Great weekend event at Via Port Mall with the team of Fonda Speedway.

03/17/2026

On Sunday, some members of the BRBS Team joined in the festivities at Sacred Heart Church for the annual Spaghetti Luncheon! Great event, delicious food, and a great community!

03/11/2026

Sending a special thank you to all funeral directors...today and every single day.

March 11, 2026
National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Day