Simple Choices, Inc. Cremation Service

03/23/2026

Mitchell Alden Liberman

ALBANY -

Mitchell Liberman died in his sleep on February 21, 2026, four days before his 76th birthday. He had been a resident of Daughters of Sarah Nursing Home for a number of years.

Mitchell was predeceased by his parents Irving and Edith. He is survived by his younger brother Lyle, several cousins, and many friends. Mitchell grew up in the suburbs of New York City. As a Jr. at Jericho High School, he set a track record for the low hurdles that stood for 23 years. He graduated from SUNY Albany in 1972. Mitchell was an early pioneer of the health food scene in Albany. He opened a health food store on Central Avenue - Miles Natural Foods in 1979. After many years he sold the business and in 1994 joined a group of cyclists to ride across America from Bellingham Wa to Portland Me (5100 miles).

Returning to Albany from his cross country tour he had a varied career: automobile salesman, coffee barista at the Daily Grind in Troy, teacher, and Assistant Manager of the Health and Body Care Department of the Honest Weight Food Coop on Central Avenue. Mitchell was an avid cyclist and super bike mechanic. He bought and sold many bikes, but he maintained a small stable of high quality rides. His favorite and last bike was a purple Spectrum titanium bicycle hand built by Tom Kellogg, which he rode on his tour of the Dolomite Mountains in Northern Italy in 2002.

Mitchell was a devoted and enthusiastic fan of Bob Dylan. Any time Dylan performed within a 100 mile radius of Albany, he would be in the audience. He owned every album that was made and knew most of Dylan’s song lyrics by heart, even to the point of conducting whole conversations in “Dylanese”. This enthusiasm stemmed from Mitchell’s love of language and word-play. He relished making up riddles and jokes, correcting one’s grammar and looking up etymologies.

Mitchell is gone, but he has touched all of us:

“Yer gonna have to leave me now, I know. But I'll see you in the sky above, In the tall grass, in the ones I love, Yer gonna make me lonesome when you go.”

(Bob Dylan 1974 - Blood on the Tracks).

Thank you to the staff and care givers at Daughters of Sarah for the support, concern and care they gave Mitchell during his residence there.

There will be a gathering at the Honest Weight Food Co-op community room (Located at: 100 Watervliet Avenue, Albany, NY 12206) to remember Mitchell and share stories of his life on Sunday, May 24, 2026 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

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

View Mitchell Alden Liberman's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/23/2026

Marlene Helen Jefferson

GUILDERLAND –

Marlene Helen Jefferson, 73, of Guilderland, New York passed peacefully on March 17, 2026, at the St. Peter’s Hospice Respite Inn.

Marlene was born on April 29, 1952 in New Rochelle, New York. Her life was marked by kindness to others, unshakable faith, strong work ethic and vibrant outlook on life. Marlene will be remembered for her joyous laughs, beautiful smile, magnetic personality, classy professional work outfits, no nonsense business skills …and hard-earned, always dreamed-for Ford Mustangs, of course with stick shift!

Although she had no biological children of her own, Marlene was lovingly known as, “Mom” to many. She devoted herself to assisting in the raising of her niece (Latrice) and nephew (Clifton) and in later years provided strong guidance to a fellow employee’s teenage daughter, Karli, and her friend, Jack’s, growing son, Andrew.

Marlene’s youth was highlighted by her love of music and sports, especially football. She truly had soul; music was in her bones and she loved to dance. As a teen she and some friends formed a singing group, “The Casuals” that were so talented they were invited to perform on the nationally acclaimed TV talent show, “The Ted Mack Amateur Hour”. Her home in Guilderland was often filled with the sounds of Motown and Gospel. For years Marlene dedicated herself to coaching youth football teams.

Immediately following her graduation from high school Marlene commenced work as a switch board operator for the New York Telephone Company. Over the following forty two years, through hard work and determination she rose through the ranks, ultimately retiring as a regional manager, overseeing several hundred employees in multiple offices around New England. Throughout her evolving career with the telephone company Marlene encountered many challenges; she was a young African American woman - working in a white, male-dominated world.

Recognizing her talents and potential, in the mid-1990’s Verizon transferred Marlene to the Albany area to manage a busy call-center. She attacked the challenges, grew and succeeded.

Marlene never had time to pursue her formal education until later in life. That always bothered her - she needed to know she could climb that mountain, too. Therefore, with her typical grit, while still working full-time, Marlene earned an Associate’s Degree, a Bachelor’s Degree and a Master’s Degree. She was so very proud !

When not working, Marlene was an avid sports fan, especially following the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees. And she fulfilled a life-long dream of adopting dogs, eventually owning four miniature poodles. Then, to fulfill her pack, her friend Jack’s dog, Oliver, abandoned Jack and moved in with Marlene!

As she adjusted to home ownership in Guilderland Marlene embraced the challenges of yard work and landscaping. She loved working in the dirt and getting her hands dirty - usually while singing.

Consistent with her life of service to others, as Marlene’s roots grew in Guilderland she stepped forward to volunteer for her local townhouse community, Country Village Townhouse Association where she served tirelessly as Board Member and Treasurer for many years. She also became an active parishioner of St. Boniface Episcopal Church, again volunteering as Secretary and Treasurer and singing in the choir. Marlene truly loved her years at St. Boniface. Her devotion and vibrant personality are sorely missed.

Sadly, in recent years Marlene’s spirit gradually faded. On Halloween Day, 2023, she was formally diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Marlene fought hard to keep it at bay and even attempted to participate in clinical pharmaceutical trials, but to no avail. This devilish thief relentlessly robbed Marlene of her essence. In February, 2024 Marlene was admitted for care at Colonie Peregrine Senior Living where she received loving attention until her recent admission to the Hospice Respite Inn, St. Peter’s Hospital, Albany, NY.. The angelic staff in Hospice provided Marlene with the loving, tender, dignified care she deserved; she peacefully passed from this world on March 17, 2026, with loved ones at her side.

A Jewish Kaddish affirming God’s love was given then, and repeated now, “There, rest. No more suffering for you. I know where you have gone; it is good.”

Marlene is survived by her partner, John A (“Jack”) Fairbank; her brother, Clifton Jefferson; and her sister, Bettyann Jefferson (Vinny); her niece, Latrice Jefferson-Phillip (John, “Dudley”); her nephew, Clifton Jefferson (Claudine) and nieces, nephews and cousins too numerous to mention. She was predeceased by her brothers, Samuel and Ricardo Jefferson as well as her parents, Samuel Seth Jefferson and Helen M. Kellis-Jefferson.

As Marlene faded, Latrice moved from her home in New Rochelle, NY to live with her beloved, “Auntie”. Latrice tirelessly guided Marlene initially through the difficult moments of memory loss and confusion then through the unimaginably horrific moments of “sun downing”, eventually requiring admission for memory care. Latrice then unceasingly visited Marlene at Peregrine Memory Care, often sleeping by her side and even providing personal care for many months. Sometimes life opens the windows for angels; Latrice came in.

Of course, none of us is an island: Latrice’s teenage daughter, Kailyn, moved to Guilderland with her mother, started at a new school and has been critical in Marlene’s journey. Early on in the process, Kailyn was the only person that could amazingly calm Marlene and Kailyn frequently held down the fort making Latrice’s duties feasible. And Latrice’s husband, John, their first daughter, Laura, and their son, John, have made innumerable sacrifices in Marlene’s long battle.

Marlene and her partner, Jack, were an effective, loving couple who created much joy and positivity through their volunteer efforts, participation in church activities, family gatherings, travel and many DIY projects. If anything positive can be forged from the ravages of dementia, it is the very strong bond between Latrice and Jack and their families.

Marlene will be remembered for her generous heart, her love of family and friends and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and joy. Her legacy of compassion and community will live on in the many people who proudly call her “Mom” and friend.

A Celebration of Marlene’s Life will be held on April 18, 2026 at St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5148 Western Turnpike, Altamont (Guilderland), NY at 11:00 am.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be sent to: The Community of Hospice Foundation, 310 South Manning Blvd., Albany, NY 12208

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

View Marlene Helen Jefferson's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/23/2026

James Arthur Birch

SCHENECTADY -

James Arthur “Jimmy” Birch, 71, of Schenectady, New York, passed away on March 14, 2026, at Albany Medical Center after a brief illness.

He was born on December 15, 1954, in Niskayuna, New York, to the late Mildred June Hart and Warren Arthur Birch.

Jimmy was educated in the Schenectady City School District and attended Linton High School. He later proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He had a lifelong passion for transportation, especially trains and airplanes. Jimmy often spent time at the airport watching planes take off and land, finding joy in the experience. He was also known for building detailed model replicas, which he proudly shared with friends and family. In addition, he had a deep love for animals and was happiest when he had a dog by his side.

Jimmy is survived by his son, Christopher J. Jamnik (née Birch) of Danville, Illinois; his sisters, Patricia Nguyen of Katy, Texas, and Maryann Carraway of Amelia Court House, Virginia; and his brother, Thomas Hotaling of Schenectady, New York. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Claudia Martin, and his brothers, Warren “Buster” Birch Jr. and Levern “Vern” Birch.

Jimmy will be cremated, and there will be no formal services.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in his memory to Pilots N Paws, an organization reflecting his love of aviation and animals.

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

View James Arthur Birch's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/21/2026

Mark Edward Smith, Sr.

GRANVILLE –

Mark Edward Smith, Sr., passed away at Albany Medical Center on March 18, 2026.

He was a resident of Granville for many years. Mark was born on June 26, 1963 in Ticonderoga, NY, and grew up in Hague, NY.

The son of the late Kenneth E. Smith, Jr., and Virginia M (Hill). Mark attended Hague and Ticonderoga Central Schools.

Mark loved the woods, he was a logger. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time with his son and grandsons.

Predeceased by his wife, Sandra (Bennet). They were married on May 25, 2002. Mark was also predeceased by his parents.

Left to honor his memories are his son, Mark E. Smith, Jr. (Laura) of Bristol, VT, his daughter, Felicia L. Smith of Salem, NY; 3 grandsons: Mason, Caden and Adrian Smith of Bristol, VT. A stepson, Michael P. Sharp, 2 brothers: Michael Smith (Rachael) of Port Henry, NY and Joseph Smith (Kasie) of Crown Point, NY; 2 sisters: Claralee Allard of Wallingford, VT and Karen Rhino of Pine River, MN.

Several nieces and nephews, as well as a lifelong friend Walter (Arleen) Sawyer of Ticonderoga, NY also survive.

There will be no services.

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

View Mark Edward Smith, Sr.'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/18/2026

Joan M. Bishop-Keoughan

TROY –

Joan M. Bishop-Keoughan, 86, of Troy, New York, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, on March 15, 2026.

Born and raised in Wilton, Joan dedicated much of her life to serving others. As a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) for many years, she was known for her deep compassion and the tireless care she provided to her patients.

Outside of her professional life, Joan found great joy in simple pleasures, including playing bingo, visiting the casino, and, above all, spending time with her family.

Joan was blessed with two great loves in her lifetime: John Keoughan and Richard Bishop, both of whom she now joins in peace.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose legacy of love lives on through her extensive family.

She is survived by her children: Donna (Jessie) Ward, Kelly Supernaw, Shawn (Kristy) Keoughan, and Christopher (Melissa) Keoughan. She also leaves behind 21 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Joan was predeceased by her husbands, John Keoughan and Richard Bishop, as well as her son, John Supernaw Sr.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Community Hospice for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Joan during her final days.

In accordance with Joan’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. The family requests that those who knew her celebrate her life in their own private way.

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

View Joan M. Bishop-Keoughan's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/18/2026

Yvonne (Miller Noll) DeBellis

CASTLETON –

Yvonne (Miller Noll) DeBellis of Castleton, NY, born Yvonne Chin in Guyana in 1940, passed peacefully on March 17, 2026, surrounded by family.

Yvonne leaves behind her one true love, her husband of 43 years, Dan, and her beloved children, Richard (Paula) and Raelene (Claudia) Noll. She also leaves behind her cherished stepchildren, Daniel (Dixie) DeBellis, Virginia (Larry) Whicker, and Cheryl O’Hara.

The pride of her life was her precious grandchildren, Alexandra (Brian) Noll and William Noll. She also cherished moments with her step-grandchildren, Melissa (Mike) Frattarola, Damien (Ashley) V***a, Dustin (Sara) V***a, Emily (Nate) Bell, Eric O’Hara, and Michael Justin (Enrique) Whicker. Her love cascaded through to the next generation of great-grandchildren. Yvonne will also be dearly missed by her siblings, nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

Yvonne’s profession and passion were rooted in the cause of deinstitutionalizing the developmentally disabled during her career spanning three decades as a social worker for the State of New York. She was also a dedicated advocate for single-parent households and children living in poverty.

Yvonne had a fierce love of travel. She and Dan explored five continents together, seeing everything from the streets of St. Petersburg, Russia, to the ornate Casino de Monte-Carlo of Monaco, the vibrant hills of Santiago, Chile, the dazzling skyline of Singapore, the beaches and temples of Thailand, and the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand and Australia. Together they cruised through the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, the Panama Canal, around Cape Horn, and along the Volga River. She especially enjoyed many voyages on the Cunard Line.

The pink sands of Bermuda held a special place in their hearts as the location of their honeymoon. Her home away from home was in Cocoa Beach, Florida, where she spent many winters escaping the harsh upstate New York snow. Cocoa Beach was a place of long walks on the sand and many treasured moments with friends and family. Her passion for travel and adventure will be carried on by her future generations, in whom she instilled a love of living a full and flavorful life.

In addition to travel, she was an avid reader. The places and stories she could not experience in person, she explored through her book club, which spanned 30 years. She delighted in the adventure and exploration of time and place offered by a novel. Her other hobbies included gardening, flower arranging, entertaining, cooking, and always, dessert. She was also a talented seamstress, creating clothing, costumes, and special pieces for her family and friends.

Yvonne was a true beauty and had a magnetic presence that drew people in. A fashion and furniture model in her youth, published in many local catalogues and newspapers, she had a natural sense of elegance, style, and trend. She was always dressed to impress and through her fashion, made even the most mundane moments feel special and memorable. She loved spending time with her children and sharing their passions. With her son, Richard, she shared a love of gardening, especially tulip bulbs, and lively discussions of the events of the day. With her daughter, Raelene, she enjoyed Broadway shows, trips to New York City and France, and many shared adventures exploring the world together.

Yvonne lived fully, loved deeply, and leaves behind a family and community forever shaped by her presence. Those who knew her will remember her, for her strength, elegance, curiosity, and the joy she brought to everyday moments.

A service followed by a celebration of Yvonne’s remarkable life will take place at the First United Methodist Church, 1 Gilligan Road, East Greenbush, NY 12061, on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, Yvonne would smile upon you planting a perennial in your yard to be enjoyed in the future while remembering her. Donations may also be made in Yvonne’s memory to St. Jude's Children’s Research Hospital. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Yvonne (Miller Noll) DeBellis's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/18/2026

Maurice L. Belanger, Jr.

CROPSEYVILLE —

Maurice L. Belanger Jr., 74, of Cropseyville, passed away peacefully in Albany, NY, on March 14, 2026.

Born on November 5, 1951, in Plattsburgh, NY, he was the son of the late Maurice L. Belanger Sr. and Margaret Mary (Garrow) Belanger.

A proud veteran, Maurice served with honor in the United States Marine Corps from 1968 to 1973. Following his military service, he dedicated many years of hard work to Sodexho before retiring. On October 24, 1987, Maurice married the love of his life, Carol (Darrow) Belanger, in Melrose, NY. Together, they built a life centered on family and simple pleasures. Maurice was happiest outdoors, whether tending to his yard on his Zero Turn mower, traveling to new places, or taking scenic drives through the Adirondacks.In addition to his beloved wife, Carol, he is survived by his children: Richard (Cindy) Belanger, Diane (Brian) Pearce, Holly (Daniel) Hyldelund, Crystal Belanger, and Andrew Belanger. He was the cherished grandfather of Jason Hyldelund, Alyssa Briggs, Alana Hyldelund, Lindsay Briggs, and Sara Belanger. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Marjorie Darrow; his sister, Melody (Roy) Summerson; and several cousins, nephews, and nieces. He was predeceased by his parents.

Relatives and Friends are invited to attend Calling Hours on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the Chapel of Simple Choices, Inc. & Riverview Funeral Home, 218 2nd Avenue, Troy, NY 12180. A Memorial Service will follow immediately at 7 o’clock with Deacon Bob Sweeney, officiating. Military Honors will commence at 7:30 PM in the funeral home. Interment will take place privately at a later date, at the convenience of the family. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Maurice L. Belanger, Jr.'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/17/2026

Jean M. Wood

SELKIRK –

It is with deep love and profound sorrow that we announce the passing of an extraordinary woman on March 14, 2026, at the age of 87.

She lived a life defined by compassion, intellect, creativity, and an unwavering devotion to others. She was the beloved daughter of the late Ella Mae Morrison and John Morrison, and sister to the late David Morrison. A gifted writer and lover of language, she was a published author of PRISMS, a poetry collection reflecting the people she cherished and the experiences that shaped her life. She also wrote the play Journey Shared and an unpublished manuscript, Giving Love.

She dedicated many years to public service with the State of New York Department of Education, including work supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. As a speech pathologist, she empowered countless individuals to find their voice. She also taught at SUNY Albany and The College of Saint Rose. She had a deep, prayerful relationship with the Lord which encompassed who she was, guiding her words, her actions, and her love for others. She was an avid reader and lifelong learner. To know her was to feel seen, valued, and loved. She had a remarkable way of turning acquaintances into family.

She is survived by her children, Steve Wood and Rhonda J. Wood-Flores. Her “children born in her heart”: Eunice Monteiro, Jen Harris, Lisa Harris, Anita Rose, Rachel Ginther (Brian), Elaine Woroby, Shakyra Murray, and Catherine Pierce. Grandchildren: Jessica Gawrys (Brant), Emily Rose Lomonaco (Sal), Emily Jean Leclerc (Danny), Octavio, Marcela, Sofia, Tabitha Magoon (Michael), Naomi Shari (Ben), Kayla Monteiro, Jada, Tony, Melody, Lennox, and Aniyah. Great-grandchildren: Evison, Lula, River, Jason (Nadia), Rudy, Leticia, Logan, Noah, Jeremiah, Julian, Izabella, and Lola. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews whom she adored deeply.

Her life was a testament to love in action. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always cherished.

Relatives and Friends are invited to Jean’s Celebration of Life, this Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. in the Loudonville Presbyterian Church, 22 Old Niskayuna Road, Loudonville, NY 12211. (Casual and Tie Dye attire encouraged). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

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03/17/2026

Joan M. VanAlstyne

RENSSELAER —

Joan M. VanAlstyne, 93, of Rensselaer and formerly of Troy, entered into eternal rest on March 9, 2026, in Castleton, New York, passing peacefully of natural causes.

Born in Albany on December 10, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Arthur and Katherine Ellis. Raised in Rensselaer, Joan remained a lifelong resident of the community she loved.

For many years, she was a dedicated employee of Montgomery Ward, where she served with distinction as a clerk in both the department and catalog stores.

Joan was the beloved wife of the late Charles VanAlstyne, Sr. She was also preceded in death by her children, Charles VanAlstyne, Jr. and Janet VanAlstyne, who passed away at the age of six.

She is survived by her devoted children: John VanAlstyne (and his fiancée Penny D. Bonesteel), Barbara VanAlstyne, and Bernard Cuzdey (Joseph Cuzdey).

Her legacy of love continues through her cherished grandchildren: Janet VanAlstyne, Patrick Bernard, and Stasha Cuzdey.

In accordance with Mrs. VanAlstyne’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Funeral services and interment will be held privately at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements for cremation have been entrusted to Simple Choices, Inc. Those who wish to share fond memories or expressions of sympathy may do so online at SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Joan M. VanAlstyne's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/16/2026

Robert W. Arnold III

ALBANY –

Robert W. Arnold III, age 80, entered into eternal rest on February 21, 2026, in Niskayuna, New York.

A resident of Albany and formerly of Altamont, he was born in Syracuse to the late Robert W. Arnold II and Isabel A. Smith.

A dedicated scholar and public servant, Mr. Arnold earned his Master of Arts in American History from The College of Saint Rose. He devoted over three decades to academia as an Adjunct Professor at his alma mater and Excelsior College, where he shared his profound knowledge of Colonial and Civil War history with generations of students. His professional legacy further includes nearly twenty years of distinguished service as a Chief Government Records Specialist for the New York State Archives, where he oversaw vital records programs for thousands of local governments. A veteran of the United States Army, Robert carried a deep sense of duty throughout his life. He was a man of steadfast commitment, celebrated for his intellectual contributions to New York State history and his unwavering devotion to his family.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of thirty-seven years, Maureen (Bellinger) Arnold, whom he married in Albany on August 1, 1970. She passed away on February 23, 2007. His memory will be cherished by his children: Kathleen B. Arnold, Robert W. Arnold IV, and Joshua E. Arnold (Nichele); and his six grandchildren: Kyle J., Madison G., Jacob P., William J., Lucas D., and Levi R. Arnold.

Robert will be laid to rest in the Arnold Family Plot in Maple Grove Cemetery, located at: 5860 Jordan Road, Jordan, NY, 13080. Relatives and Friends are invited to pay their respects and may attend a graveside ceremony with Military Honors to commence at 12 o'clock on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Arrangements have been entrusted to family friend, Nicholas J. Facci, Funeral Director with Simple Choices, Inc. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Arnold Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

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03/15/2026

Michael Joseph Kenific, Sr.

SCHENECTADY –

Michael Kenific Sr., 76, of Schenectady, New York, formerly of Albany, New York, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born in Albany on June 2, 1949, Michael was the son of the late Arthur and Elizabeth Kenific.

He was a proud graduate of Philip Schuyler High School and spent much of his life in the Capital Region, residing in Albany and Waterford before settling in Schenectady. A man of independent spirit, Michael was self-employed for many years. Michael found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed spending time at his camp on Sacandaga Lake and frequent visits to Rivers Casino. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family and his beloved cats, Oreo and Cookie.

He is survived by his longtime companion, Nancy Struensee, and his children: Michael Kenific Jr., Lisa (Steve) Kurtelawicz, Dennis Kenific, Darcy Kenific, Stacy Kenific, Chrissy Struensee, and his niece, whom he loved as a daughter, Lisa Mock. He was the brother of Richard (Lynn) Kenific and is also survived by his former wife, Diane Kenific. Michael’s legacy lives on through his eleven grandchildren: Nicholas, Michael III, Rebecca, Alex, Steven, Lizzie, Tyler, Ashlynn, Dylan, Ethan, and Zoe; and his six great-grandchildren: Grayson, Christopher, Mia, Kylie, Arianna, and Charlotte.

He was predeceased by his siblings Elaine Hughes, Claire Hall, and Paul Kenific, and his former spouse, Sarah Dorgan.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Information regarding services will be shared by the family once finalized. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

03/11/2026

Craig P. Loftus

HALFMOON –

Craig P. Loftus, 52, entered into eternal rest on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Albany Medical Center following a brief illness.

Born in Albany on December 9, 1973, at St. Peter’s Hospital, Craig was the devoted son of Harold and Dorothy Loftus. A lifelong resident of the area, he was a graduate of Shenendehowa High School and went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from Siena College.

Craig dedicated many years of his professional life to Standard Copy Products, where he served as a sales representative. Most recently, he held the position of Distribution Manager for the Hearst Corporation. Craig will be remembered for his professional integrity and his final selfless act of kindness as an organ donor, providing the gift of life to others.

In addition to his parents, Craig is survived by his beloved sons, Alex Loftus and Adam Loftus, who were the pride and joy of his life.

Funeral arrangements and services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.

For those who wish to honor Craig’s memory in a special way, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Wildwood Programs, 1190 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110.

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

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