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Simple Choices, Inc. Cremation Service, 218 2nd Avenue, Troy, NY (2026)

02/05/2026

Steven E. Mosher

PORTER CORNERS –

Steven E. Mosher, 64, formerly of Menands, passed away on January 18, 2026, at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady, New York.

Born in Troy, NY, Steve was the son of Robert F. Mosher and Arlene M. (Salway) Mosher. He was raised in Latham, lived in Averill Park, and most recently resided in Menands. He was a 1978 graduate of Shaker High School.

Steven was a proud United States Navy veteran, serving from 1980 to 1986, where he earned numerous achievements and awards. Following his military service, he worked as an installer with Time Warner Cable and later as a delivery driver for various companies until his illness. In his leisure time, he enjoyed video gaming and fishing.

He is survived by his wife, Caryl, whom he married on October 16, 2004. Also surviving are his daughter, his world, Amanda N. Mosher; his parents, Bob and Arlene; his brother, Ronald (late Carolyn), nephews, nieces and several cousins.

Honoring Steven’s wishes, there will be no viewing or funeral. A celebration of life will be held in the spring at the family's convenience. Burial with military honors will take place at the Saratoga National Cemetery at a later date.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. Elfaki and his wonderful nurse, Maria, for the respect and comfort care provided in his last days.

Donations in his name can be made to Gateway House of Peace, 479 Rowland St, Ballston Spa, NY 12020.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Steven E. Mosher's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/04/2026

Eleanor Geraldine Van Bellingham

GLENVILLE –

Eleanor Van Bellingham passed away peacefully in her home in Glenville, New York, surrounded by family on Monday, December 8th, 2025, at the age of 91. She grew up in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and later made her home on New York City’s Upper West Side, where she built a distinguished career as a copy editor at Redbook, Time-Life Books, and Life Magazine. During her years in New York, she was also an avid runner, embracing the rhythms and opportunities of city life.

In 1994, Eleanor retired and moved to Glenville to be closer to her daughters and grandchildren, a decision that shaped the next three decades of her life. There, she followed her interests with characteristic focus and curiosity. While living in Glenville, she pursued birdwatching, pet care, her work as a 4-H Master Gardener, and literature study.

Above all, Eleanor treasured time with family, often spending long summer days at the beach with her daughters and grandchildren.

Eleanor is survived by her beloved sisters, Mary Kunkler and Jill Klenota; her brothers-in-law, Peter McIlven and Ernst Henle; her nieces, Danielle McIlven, Paula Norman, and Theresa Henle; and her nephews, Joel McIlven and Adrian Henle.

She leaves behind her three loving daughters, Wendy Van Bellingham, Heidi Van Bellingham, and Katrina Blecher; her son-in-law, Rafael Epstein; and a longtime family friend, Stephen Talt.

She is remembered by three marvelous grandchildren, Joshua Gordon, Haley Van Bellingham, and Ari Gordon, as well as two deeply valued grandchildren by marriage, Ruth Dietrich and Kiyono Fujinaga-Gordon. Her great-grandchildren, Ezra and Rivka Gordon, brightened her final years.

She was predeceased by her sister, Jeanne McIlven; her brother, Paul Oppenheimer; her son-in-law, Tony Blecher; and her brother-in-law, Lawrence Van Bellingham.

Eleanor will be remembered as creative, meticulous, and fiercely intelligent. She was endlessly imaginative and possessed a bright sense of humor. Throughout her life, she met challenges with determination and built a world centered on family, friendship, and a deep appreciation for beauty in all its forms.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Eleanor Geraldine Van Bellingham's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/01/2026

Marcia P. Manginelli (Bailey)

COLONIE -

Our beloved matriarch, Marcia P. Manginelli, born in Albany, daughter of Edward R. Mangelsdorf Sr. and Marion K. (Fish), passed away peacefully.

She was resilient to her core—strong in ways that mattered—and faced life with humor, wit, and just the right amount of sarcasm.

She had a gift for conversation and loved being around people: talking, laughing, and truly connecting. Music was her heartbeat, and dancing was her joy. Heyyy

“Horizons that I’ve never seen. Oh, I’d like to take just a moment and dream my dream.”

— Zoom

She is survived by her daughter, Deborah A. Bailey; her son, John A. Bailey III (Luciene); and her grandchildren, Danielle Gaudio, Richard Jack III, and Nicholas Bailey. She was predeceased by her brother, Fr. Edward R. Mangelsdorf Jr.

She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Marcia P. Manginelli (Bailey)'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/30/2026

Nancy Chamberlin

WEST SAND LAKE –

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Nancy Chamberlin, 63, of West Sand Lake, formerly of East Schodack, who passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026, in the comfort of her own home surrounded by her loving family.

Nancy was a beloved preschool teacher at Trinity Christian Day School and later served with the U.S. Postal Service. Her true passion was working with children, and her classroom was known for its patience, joy, and creativity. She will be remembered for her sweet, kind, energetic, and fun-loving spirit, which brought joy and humor to all who knew her. Nancy enjoyed caring for her many flowers and gardens and cherished spending her summers at Lake George.

Nancy is survived by her devoted husband, Thomas Chamberlin, Sr.; her children, Thomas Chamberlin Jr. (Holly Sutter) and Sara Chamberlin; her grandchildren, Nevaeh and Atticus Chamberlin; her siblings, Jill Flores (Martin Flores) and Robert Jacobsen; and her sister-in-law, Bonnie McKay. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert H. and Karren P. (Schweigert) Jacobsen.

Nancy’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the dedicated team of hospice caretakers who provided such compassionate and professional care during her final days. Their kindness and support brought a sense of peace to Nancy and her entire family during this difficult journey.

A private service will be held for the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Nancy's memory to the Alzheimer's Association. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Nancy Chamberlin's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/29/2026

Norbert J. Robak

GANSEVOORT -

Norbert J. Robak was born on May 6, 1932, in Adams, MA, and passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, surrounded by his family.

He was the son of Clara (Ostrobinsky) Robak and Joseph A. Robak. A 1951 graduate of Adams High School, Norb entered the U.S. Army the following year and served in Wiesbaden, Germany until 1954. He later attended Alliance Technical School in Cambridge Springs, PA, earning an associate's degree in Tool & Die.

Norb began his career with Raytheon and Spencer Labs in Waltham, MA. In 1956, he joined The Six Pages of Dixie, playing guitar and banjo as the group performed throughout the New England states. He later worked for Microwave Associates in Burlington, MA, where he designed jigs and fixtures used in the historic Apollo 11 moon mission. He continued his career at Varian Associates in Beverly, MA for five years before relocating to Gansevoort, NY in 1973.

There, Norb began a new chapter at BOCES in Saratoga Springs. Throughout more than 20 years of service, he held numerous roles and ultimately retired in 1995 as the Vocational Director of Job Placement, partnering with local businesses to create work‑study opportunities for students. He earned his B.S.S. in Education from SUNY Albany in 1982.

In 1985, Norb joined the Dixie Daddies, a hot‑jazz group that performed on all the Lake George Boat Company vessels, including the historic Ticonderoga II prior to its dismantling in 1993. The group was later renamed The Steel Pier Jazz Band. Norb played both guitar and banjo with skill, enthusiasm, and a deep love for the music. He also performed many summer afternoons at the Saratoga Racetrack.

Norb was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Dorothy Long, and brother‑in‑law, Dale Long of Palm Coast, FL; and his nephew, Johnny Long of Colorado. He was recently predeceased by his longtime companion, Marilyn Smith of South Glens Falls, NY. Together, they spent many winters in Brooksville, FL, enjoying sunshine, warm weather, and every live music event they could find.

He leaves behind his daughter, Kimberly Miller; son‑in‑law, Alfred Miller III; and granddaughter, Sydney Miller of Queensbury. He is also survived by his nephew, Dale Long Jr.; wife, Angela Condy Long; their daughter Riley Long of Saratoga Springs; and their son, Dale Long III of Malta. Additionally, he is survived by his former wife, Carol (Robak) Haseltine of Flagler Beach, FL.

A private burial will be held at the Gansevoort Cemetery in the spring for family. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

Poetic Tribute (From His Daughter)

My dad made music with his hands

and warmth with his heart -

gifts he shared generously

with everyone around him.

From the rhythm of a banjo line

to the soft hum of tools well‑used,

he built a life of purpose -

carefully, joyfully,

piece by piece.

Though his song has ended,

I still hear it -

in the memories we hold,

the stories we share,

and in every quiet melody

that brings him back to me.

His legacy lives on

in the lives he touched,

the lessons he taught,

and the love he so freely gave.

I will carry him with me -

always.

View Norbert J. Robak's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/28/2026

Anthony E. Benvenuti

TROY -

Anthony E. Benvenuti, 63, of Troy, New York, peacefully passed away on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at St. Peter's Hospital in Albany, New York.

Born on July 3, 1962, in Rensselaer, New York, he was the son of Eugene Benvenuti and Margaret (Busch) Benvenuti.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Tina Benvenuti, whom he married on August 21, 1993, in Rensselaer. He is also survived by his sister, Theresa Benvenuti, his brother, Keith Benvenuti, his niece, Kasey Sayers, and his nephew, Philip Sayers.

Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Anthony E. Benvenuti's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/27/2026

Genevieve "Jenny" Lynne Towers

SCHENECTADY –

Genevieve "Jenny" Lynne Towers (Mills), 82, resident of Schenectady NY (formerly of Virginia, San Ramon, CA, Fort Worth, TX, and Bakersfield, CA) entered her heavenly reward on January 22, 2026, from the comfort of her home after a long bout with cancer.

Born in New York City, NY, she was the daughter of the late Clarence Woolford Mills and the late Dorothy Mable Mills. Jenny took early retirement from IBM in the 1990s and enjoyed a long retirement.

Since the early 1990s, Christianity has been a very strong and active part of her life. She enjoyed two mission trips to Africa and taught ladies Sunday School classes for decades. She was an avid student of the Bible. Her favorite topics to study were Israel, the Old Testament and God's Covenant with believers. She was predeceased by her husband, Arthur Ronald Towers, in 2000, and her brother, Vincent Mills, in 2024.

Jenny had one surviving brother, Logan Mills and Eleanor Mills of Somerset, CA.

She is survived by her son: Michael James Towers and Lena (Colvin) Towers of Schenectady, NY. She had four granddaughters, Elizabeth Joy, Hannah Grace, Rachel Hope and Mikal Faith. She also had a wonderful stepson, Andrew Robert Towers, of Sacramento, CA.

A Celebration Service is planned to honor her love and legacy on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11 am at Trinity Baptist Church, 2635 Balltown Road, Niskayuna NY 12309, where she has been a faithful member for the past ten years. All are cordially invited to attend and are encouraged to wear blue in her honor.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Genevieve "Jenny" Lynne Towers's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/25/2026

Robert LaVallee

COHOES –

Robert LaVallee was born on July 15, 1932 and passed away on January 19, 2026.

After retirement, he did what he loved most, golfing with his brother and friends, riding his bicycle and walking many miles a day.

Robert is survived by his sister Phyllis, his nieces: April, Tara, Annie, Aubrie and Amelia and his nephew D.J.

Robert was predeceased in death by his mother Lorreta Roy and his father Phillip LaVallee, Sr., as well as his brother Phil.

The family will honor Robert privately without holding a public service, per his wishes.

A “special thanks” to the community at his apartment complex for always being there for him, as well as the staff at St. Peter’s for their great care in his final days.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Robert LaVallee's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/24/2026

Estelle Mary Pitkiewicz

GUILDERLAND -

Estelle Mary Pitkiewicz, 92, a longtime resident of Guilderland and formerly of Albany, entered into eternal rest on January 22, 2026, from the comfort of her own home.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Harold Klein Heiter and Loretta Elizabeth Masterson. Estelle was raised in Harvey's Lake, PA, and also resided in Miami Beach, FL, Albany, NY, and Guilderland, NY. She was a dedicated homemaker and also owned her own business, Estelle's Decor.

A woman of faith and service, she was an active member of her church community and volunteered her time at Our Lady of Mercy Life Center Nursing Home. In her leisure, she enjoyed crafting, dancing, music, and watching Turner Classic Movies. She was a loving mother to five children.

Estelle was the beloved wife of the late Anthony T. Pitkiewicz, Jr., whom she married on May 24, 1958 in Hampton Manor, NY. She was predeceased by her son, Michael Thomas Pitt.

She is survived by her children: Anthony T. Pitkiewicz III, Liz Weis, Christine Heiter, and Steven (Jamie) Pitkiewicz; her cherished grandchildren: Christian Hokaj, Rachel Hokaj, Lucy Pitkiewicz, and Billy Pitkiewicz; and her valued caregivers, Rich Nunziato and Agnus Larcenaire, to whom the family extends heartfelt thanks.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Christ the King Church, 20 Sumter Ave, Albany, NY 12203. All are cordially invited to attend.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Estelle Mary Pitkiewicz's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/24/2026

Dennis M. Baker

STEPHENTOWN –

Dennis M. Baker, 74 of Stephentown, NY passed away peacefully after a short illness January 21, 2026 at St. Peter's Hospital. Dennis is pre-deceased by his parents, Fred and Gertrude Baker, his siblings, Fred Jr., Ginny, Wendy, Judy and his wife who was the absolute love of his life, Terry Masula.

He is survived by his siblings, Gary Baker (Lydia) of Troy and Bonnie Patell of West Stockbridge as well as his children, Candice Horton of Brainard and James Masula (Jennifer) of East Nassau. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Logan, Casen and Bella and the many others that had the privilege to consider him their "Papa".

Dennis grew up in Pittsfield and enjoyed spending his time playing in and traveling with the Drum Corps marching bands throughout the 70's and 80's. A talented musician who played the Brass, Baritone and the Contra Bass with the Pittsfield Imperials, the Pittsfield Cavaliers and the Capital Brass in Albany.

A devoted father and grandfather who could always be seen on the side lines of any event cheering his loved ones on; a man who proved time and time again that you didn't have to be blood to be family; someone who could always bring a smile to your face and tell you a zinger of a joke. He was an avid camper and loved to spend time with his family at a seasonal campsite in the Berkshires. He would spend many nights by the campfire telling stories and jokes. His family always teased him that his "papa-isms" would live on forever; they cherish the memories and time spent with him.

The family would like to extend their gratitude and appreciation to the nursing and medical staff of St. Peter's. Their compassion and dedication to patient's is outstanding. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Dennis's name to St. Peter's Hospital Foundation, "Becky's House", 310 S. Manning Blvd, Albany NY 12208.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Dennis M. Baker's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/24/2026

Heidi Nicole Berglas

WATERVLIET –

Heidi Nicole Berglas, 43, of Watervliet, passed away on January 22, 2026.

Heidi was born in Bad Cannstatt, Germany to Jeffery W. Berglas and Amber Lee Boles on July 17, 1982.

Besides her parents, Heidi is survived by her siblings: Ashley, Austin and Avalon; her Aunt Nancy and Uncle Rich Fenwick and cousins Bradley Fenwick and Tayler Fenwick (Carl Ballesteros).

Special thanks to the kind staff at Samaritan Hospital and a special loving “thank you” to Scott Riley for caring, understanding and unwavering support.

Heidi’s family requests memorial contributions in her memory to the: Catie Hoch Foundation, 76 Lakeshore Drive, Malta, NY 12020.

Services will be private. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Heidi Nicole Berglas's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/23/2026

Matilda "Millie" Bovee

BALLSTON SPA –

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Matilda “Millie” Bovee (1932–2026). She passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026 at the age of 93 having witnessed nearly a century.

She was known as a woman of quick wit and strength who also possessed a great sense of humor. Millie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her resilience and warmth will be deeply missed by her large family and many friends, all of whom were touched by her generous spirit. Her heart and compassion for others shone through every day of her life. This is why she loved and was loved greatly by all who knew her. In the twilight of her journey, she became our neighborhood watch, our news and weather reporter, and our comic relief daily. Millie filled our home with the sound of Hallmark movies and Family Feud and laughter, always laughter. We will constantly celebrate her life and, in so doing, we will keep her memory alive. To say that she will truly be missed is an understatement.

A private ceremony will be held at her home since that is where she most loved to be.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Matilda "Millie" Bovee's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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