05/09/2025
Robert J. Jasinski
Robert J. Jasinski, known to friends and family as Bob, passed away on April 30, 2025 at the distinguished age of 92. Born in September 1932 in Albany, NY, he grew up to value hard work, family, and service. Principles that guided him throughout his life.
Bob’s early years were spent in Albany, where he graduated from Albany High School in 1951. He enlisted in the Navy during the Korean War serving as police officer on the base in Rhode Island. He often recounted his experiences, tales of his travels back to Albany, and of his pride in serving his country. He was always proud to be an American and also proud of his Polish Heritage.
Although he aspired to go to college, he opted instead to join the family business, Stanley Paper Co, as a partner. In the early 70s he sold his shares in the business and embarked on a career with New York State. He held many different positions before becoming a Capital Police Officer during the construction of the Empire State Plaza. He held that position for many years after that as he kept safe many Governors and employees all through the state offices. After the dismantling of the police force, he transitioned to a Purchasing Agent with the Office of General Services (OGS) until his retirement in 1994.
Bob was deeply committed to his family and enjoyed many memories of the simple yet profound joys of them. He took great pride in ensuring his beloved wife Barbara was comfortable and cared for. After retirement they were able to enjoy together many winters in Florida. He believed home ownership was important and after building two homes for he and Barbara, he helped his children build homes and even aided his grandchild.
He was a hands on father, taking his children wherever he could, including many deliveries for the family business that culminated in a Fish Fry at Bob and Art’s or ice cream sundae at Platt’s place, even cookies at the Polish Bakery. He introduced both his son and daughter to hunting in Delaware County and fishing at the camp on Lake Champlain at an early age. He was especially thrilled to spend many of his last years hunting with his daughter, Linda, knowing he instilled in her a strong sense of confidence and that gender did not dictate what she could do. Bob supported his son, Stanley, in starting his own business and helped whenever he could. He would often be seen wearing Blue Diamond shirts about town and talking about the services that could be provided.
Bob relished his time visiting often with his grandson Stephan, whose wife Stephanie made cornbread he enjoyed immensely. He was proud of his granddaughter Katie, as she was the first in the family to attain a college degree, celebrating her independence and success. He enjoyed time with his great grandchildren, Jacob and Beverly. He was always concerned about their welfare, and recently enjoyed hearing about their exploits as they uncovered “treasures” from Bob’s collections of old items.
Long before it became mainstream, recycling, reuse and scrapping were Bob’s passion, picking up many great items that were discarded. He loved going to garage sales and having his own occasionally. It was said, “If you wanted something, ask Bob”. Not only would he probably have it, he would have multiples to give.
Bob was always frugal in his purchases, always looking for the bargain, and delighted when he got a deal. He enjoyed small scale stock market investing. But he was a person of kindness, willing to lend a hand to those that wanted to better themselves. He was a member of the Zaloga Post, and spent many years involved in politics on the Albany County Conservative Party Committee. He was one to step up when he saw the need, including running for Bethlehem Supervisor to give people a choice in their vote. He was not afraid to keep an eye on the Town Government attending many Board meetings and voicing his opinion with public comments.
Many years ago, Bob formed a strong friendship with Dennis O’Connor, their camaraderie characterized by mutual support and countless meaningful conversations about life, family and country. They always watched out for each other. You could often find them sharing coffee in the garage. Bob loved coffee and was sure to never waste it. He insisted on saving the leftover coffee and reheating it for days, having it with cookies or sweets that he always enjoyed.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife Barbara (Mehalak) Jasinski, his children Linda Jasinski (Ted Simons) and Stanley Jasinski (Ann). He was “Papa” to his grandchildren Stephan Jasinski (Stephanie), Ben Jasinski (Krista), Zachery Jasinski (Maria) and Katerina Simons, as well as his 5 great grandchildren. Predeceased by his parents Stanley and Margaret Jasinski and brother Matthew Jasinski.
A special thanks those that took the time to help and care for him in his later years, Barbara, Linda, Ted, Steve, Steph, Dennis, and the Hospice Nurses, especially Nicole who put that “sparkle” in his eye when he saw her.
According to Bob’s wishes, there will be no services or memorial. Interment at the convenience of the family.
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