Simple Choices, Inc. Cremation Service

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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03/09/2026

Salma R. Assemany

COLONIE -

Dr. Salma Regina Sawabini Assemany, 90, of Colonie, passed away on March 4, 2026. Salma was born on May 18, 1935, to Hassib Assemany and Carlota Sawabini in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. The oldest of five children, she graduated from Colegio Nossa Senhora das Merces founded by Ursuline nuns. She received her medical degree in 1958, from the Escola Bahiana de Medicina e Saude Publica (EBMSP) in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. For nearly a decade she was a practicing pediatrician at Martagao Gesteira Children’s Hospital.

In the late 1960s she accepted a research fellowship to work at SUNY Upstate Medical Center with the Genetic and Endocrine Unit, located Syracuse, NY. She co-authored research on Phocomelia with Mandibular Hypoplasia, ###Y Syndrome in male infants documenting physical and cardiac abnormalities and the Syndrome of Phocomelic Diabetic Embryopathy (Caudal Dysplasia).

In December 1970, she gave birth to her only child and chose to become a stay-at-home mother, residing in Manlius, NY. In the 1980s, Salma returned to work in medical records and then ultimately worked for the Macy's Department store for almost 25 years prior to her retirement. She loved music, fashion, dancing, traveling, shopping and the New York Yankees.

In 2012, she relocated to Albany, NY to be near her daughter and son-in-law. For the next 14 years she endured the slow decline associated with Alzheimer's disease. She resided at both Peregrine and Shaker Place Nursing and Rehabilitation from 2018 until the present. Her family would like to thank the staff at both locations for their care and support during this long journey.

Salma was predeceased by her parents and all of her siblings: Ana Maria Assemany Borges, Faez Augusto Assemany, Feliciana Assemany Peixoto dos Santos, and Carlos Assemany. In addition, she was predeceased by her companions: Dr. Lytt I. Gardner and Quentin J. Porter and son-in-law, Nathan Lebron. She is survived by her daughter, Charlotte Lebron (Motoki Hikita), her sisters-in-laws: Elza Azevedo and Mamara Quintas Assemany, cousins and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a service of Remembrance on Saturday, March 28, 2026 in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Avenue, Albany, NY 12203. Calling hours will be held from 5pm until 7pm followed by a Catholic Service and Celebration of Life at 7pm.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in her memory to the Zonta Club of Albany, Post Office Box 5122 Albany, NY 12205.

Arrangements have been entrusted to: Simple Choices, Inc., Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

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03/09/2026

William G. Reinecke, III

WESTERLO –

We mourn the loss of William G. Reinecke, III, of Westerlo, NY. Born to Irma (Slefka) Reinecke and William G. Reinecke, Jr on June 4, 1945.

During his working years, Bill was employed by both Henkel and Stiefel Labs.Bill’s main objective on his journey in life, was to make those whom he came in contact with smile, laugh and feel good about their memories together. He was a person who made every day brighter just by being a part of it.

He is survived by his daughter Deborah Bendel (Kerry) of Westerlo, his sons, William G. Reinecke, IV, of Rensselaerville, NY and Paul Scutt of Philadelphia, PA; and his former wife, Ellen Reinecke of Rensselaerville, NY. His grandchildren: Kiersten Bates (Keith), Alyssa Bendel (Rich Darling), and Kerry Bendel, Jr. (Kait). He is also survived by his great grandchildren, who were his treasure: Kaelynn and Kelso Bates, Laikyn and RJ Darling and Kolten Bendel. Bill is also survived by his loving sister, Diane Reinecke Huber of Ormond Beach, FL.

Those who wish may make a donation in William’s name to: Albany County EMS Office, 380 Fox Creek Road, Medusa, NY 12120.

There will be a Celebration of Bill’s Life in the summer of 2026.

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

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03/09/2026

Eileen R. Davis

NISKAYUNA –

Eileen R. Davis, Niskayuna, died February 27, 2026. She was born in Albany, NY to the late Edward E. Davis and Dorothy (Brady) Davis.

Predeceased by brother Michael Davis, she is survived by: sisters Lynda Davis, Glenville and Patty Goodwin, Schenectady; nephew Matthew Goodwin, Latham, his son Theodore Goodwin and JayDon Jones.

Arrangements, per Eileen’s directive, are private through Simple Choices, burial at Memory Gardens.

A Complete Obituary for Eileen will be published on this site soon.

Special appreciation to those who provided care to Eileen in recent months: Sharon Tietgens, MD, Heidi Godoy, DO, Lisa Armao, NP, Arifa Javed, MBBS, Meghan, RN/Case Manager-The Community Hospice, and the nurses and staff at St. Peter’s Hospice In Patient Unit.

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

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03/04/2026

Lorene Kay Lederer-Gist

SCHENECTADY –

Lorene Kay Lederer-Gist, aged 83, passed away peacefully at her home in Schenectady, New York, on February 17, 2026.

Born in Schenectady to the late Edwin H. and Doris E. (Lane) Lederer, Lorene spent much of her life in Syracuse before returning to her birthplace.

A woman of profound faith and intellect, Lorene graduated from Houghton College. She dedicated her professional life to serving others as a social worker and found great fulfillment as a devoted homemaker. Her spiritual journey was marked by a tireless devotion to the scriptures, which she studied in multiple languages. Lorene was known for her generous spirit, her constant prayers for her community, and her willingness to share her wisdom and resources with anyone in need.

Lorene was preceded in death by her husband, John E. Gist Jr., whom she married in Syracuse in November 1967. She was also predeceased by her parents.

Her legacy of faith and kindness lives on through her children: daughters Jacqueline L. Gist and Bynithia Washington, and son Askia J. Gist. She is also survived by her sisters, Lynn Lederer and June Lederer. Lorene was the proud grandmother of Bashana McClenon, Toni Kleinson, Eric Thompson, Ade Gist, Jemoni Washington, Terrance Washington Jr., Elijah Gist, Messiah Gist, and Moriah Gist. Her light continues to shine through her five great-grandchildren: Amaiya, Esani, Christopher, Oakley, and Terrance III.

Per her wishes, services will be private, and a private cremation will be observed.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to The Community Hospice for their compassionate care.

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

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03/04/2026

David H. Fowler

REXFORD –

David H. Fowler, 71, of Rexford, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, February 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Schenectady, David was the son of the late Bernard H. Fowler and Theresa Rising.

A lifelong resident of the Schenectady and Rexford areas, he dedicated his professional life to his craft as a mechanic. Straight out of high school David began his career at Pete’s Auto Parts in Schenectady alongside his brother Jerry for many years. He then spent the next 26 years at CDTA until his retirement. David was also a proud and dedicated Lifetime Member of the Rexford Fire Department, serving his community with honor.

David found great joy in the simpler things in life. He enjoyed classic car shows, and took pride in his cherished 1926 Ford Model T. He loved a good cheeseburger and rarely missed a NASCAR race on TV. He found peace in nature, whether he was collecting rocks, fishing, or simply sitting by the water’s edge. Above all, David was a devoted family man.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly fifty years, Susan N. Fowler, whom he married on August 22, 1976. He was the proud father of Daniel C. Fowler and Tracie C. Fowler. Also survived by his sisters-in-love Aimee (Kevin) Kea and Cori (Roy) Canode, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, David was predeceased by his siblings: Bernard Fowler Jr., Jerry Fowler, Marvin Fowler, Diane Fowler, and Scott Fowler.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to great friend and neighbor Tim Goodwin. Also, Kristen Best-Friesz (Schenectady Pulmonary Care), Dylan MacPhail & Breanna Hacia (Sunnyview PT), St. Peter’s Palliative Care, and the Community Hospice—with special thanks to Tammy Tyson RN, Rosalie, and Emily—for their exceptional care and compassion.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at: Trinity Baptist Church, 2635 Balltown Road, Niskayuna, NY 12309. A formal service will be included during this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in David’s memory to The Community Hospice or the Rexford Fire Department.

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

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03/04/2026

Joan Carol Vance

QUEENSBURY —

Mrs. Joan Carol Vance, 79, a lifelong resident of the North Country (including: Glens Falls, Queensbury and the Saratoga area), passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026.

Born on November 26, 1946, in Glens Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Glenn Walter Wood and Olive (Normandin) Wood. Joan was a proud graduate of Glens Falls High School and remained deeply rooted in the communities of Glens Falls, Queensbury, and the Saratoga area throughout her life.

Joan enjoyed a long and fulfilling career with Price Chopper, retiring after many years of dedicated service. Outside of her professional life, she was an active member of the Washington County Draft Animal Association and, in earlier years, enjoyed the camaraderie of her local bowling league.

An avid reader and sports enthusiast, Joan was a loyal fan of the New York Yankees and the San Francisco 49ers. She found great joy on the golf course as a member of the Fleetwood golfers and cherished simple pleasures, such as scenic car rides around Lake George and her annual tradition of boarding a vessel with the Lake George Steamboat Company.

On August 23, 2001, she was united in marriage to Douglas Charles Vance in Glens Falls, with whom she shared many happy years.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Douglas; her three children, Stephen Pyremybida, Michelle Pyremybida, and Scott Pyremybida; and her cherished grandsons, Anthony and Clint. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.

Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

For those who wish to honor Joan’s memory, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, in recognition of her lifelong love of animals, or to the American Lung Association.

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

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03/04/2026

John Logan

STILLWATER –

John Logan, 72, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, February 27, 2026, with his wife and sons by his side. He had been living with end-stage renal failure and passed from a heart attack.

John was born on August 20, 1953, in Syracuse, New York, to Roselyn M. Logan and Clair E. Logan. He built his life around family, hard work, and service to others. On January 4, 1975, he married Sharon Logan in Clifton Park, New York. Together they shared a lifelong partnership rooted in love, commitment, and devotion to their family.

John worked for many years at Albany International, from which he retired. A tireless provider, he often held multiple jobs at once to support his family whenever he was able. He also gave his time selflessly as a volunteer with the Clifton Park & Halfmoon Emergency Corps, answering calls for help when others needed it most.

A devoted father, John raised four sons: John Clair Logan (Heidi), Shawn Logan (Tina), Josh (Jennifer) Logan, and Ryan (Erica) Logan. He coached their baseball teams, took them camping and fishing, taught them to draw and paint, and shared his love of the outdoors through hunting trips and family adventures. He was handy around the house, endlessly creative, quick with humor, and never afraid to speak his mind. His passion was evident in everything he did.

John helped raise several of his grandchildren and was deeply proud of all ten of them: Marjorie Jean, Gabriel, Sage, Shawn Jr., James, Hailey, Kayden, Kameron, Saphire, and Sydney Logan. He was also a loving brother to MaryBeth (Roy) Dunn, Carl (Louis) Logan, and Steven (Kimberley) Logan, and a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews.

He loved Superman. Not just the hero, but what he stood for: doing what is right, protecting others, and standing strong even when it’s hard. John lived those values every day. He loved unconditionally, welcomed friends as family when they needed a father figure, and never took his blessings for granted. He often said he was blessed, and those who knew him know how true that was.

A Celebration of Life for John will be on held Friday March 13, 2026 at 6 p.m. in the Halfmoon-Waterford Fire District No. 1 Fire House, located at: 315 Middletown Road, Waterford NY 12188.

John Logan will be remembered as a passionate man, a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, and someone whose love and strength left a lasting mark on everyone he met.

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

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03/03/2026

Betty Gail Allard Murphy

SCHENECTADY –

Betty Allard Murphy, 84, of Schenectady, died on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

Betty was born on October 5, 1941, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the daughter of the late Hazel Howe and Clifford Thesenvitz.

She married Robert Allard of Green Island, NY in 1960 and they returned to New York to raise their family in Green Island and Ballston Spa.

Betty began working for various iterations of the Bell System in the 1960s and retired from Verizon in 2001. For several years Betty served as a tutor and mentor teaching young children the basics of reading and spelling. Survivors include three children: daughter Catherine Hall of Montana, sons Tod of New York and John Allard of Florida, her grandsons Noah and Jonah Allard, both of Schenectady, as well as her siblings Linda Marozick of Wisconsin and Lois Hegge, Richard and Douglas Theresnvitz of South Dakota. Also surviving is her former husband David Murphy of Schenectady. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

On Monday, March 9, 2026 relatives and friends may call from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. in the sanctuary of St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish, 2216 Rosa Rd, Schenectady, NY 12309, where a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 o’clock in the church. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

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

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03/02/2026

Garry Gallimore

TROY -

Garry Gallimore, 80, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on January 18, 1946, in Myra, West Virginia, Garry later made his home in Troy, New York, where he met and married Nancy DeWalt. Together they welcomed their daughter, Amanda, who remained the pride of his life.

Garry was predeceased by his parents, Alonzo and Christina Gallimore; his brothers Shirley, James, Melvin, and Charles Gallimore; his sisters Barbara Schrier, Devanis “Evadean” Malott, and Doris Thompson; and his grandson Caleb Sousis.

He is survived by his daughter Amanda Gallimore and her partner Russell Fowler; his bonus son Anthony Rupp; his grandchildren Dakota Gallimore, Xavier Gallimore, Blaize Gallimore, Anthony Rupp Jr., Roland Rupp, Leilah Sousis, Emma Rupp, and Lily Rupp; and five bonus grandchildren through Amanda’s relationship with Russell.

Among them, Anna Fowler held a special place in Garry’s heart, visiting often and helping care for him in his final days. Garry spent more than twenty years as an attendant at Mobil, where he formed countless friendships. He was known for his easy warmth, his willingness to help anyone who needed it, and his gift for turning strangers into friends. His greatest joy was gathering with family and friends around the table, a Genesee in hand, classic country music playing, and laughter filling the room. Those simple, shared moments were where Garry felt most at home.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Community Hospice for their compassion and support during Garry’s final journey. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

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02/24/2026

Lorraine Wilson

CLIFTON PARK –

Lorraine Wilson, 90, of Clifton Park, entered into eternal rest on February 13, 2026, at Wesley Community Care. Born in Albany, New York, she was a woman of profound grace and dedication to her loved ones.

She was predeceased by her beloved husbands, Marvin Wilson and DJ Purdy; her children, Marvin Wilson Jr. and Robin Wilson; as well as her brother, Edward Taylor, and her sister, Minna Moran. Lorraine’s legacy of love continues through her children: Sharon Logan and her husband John; Elizabeth 'Libby' Chura and her husband Tim 'Tinker'; Scott Wilson and his wife Genevieve; and Nikki Charbonneau and her husband Roy."

A devoted matriarch, "Grammy Wilson" took immense pride in her expansive family, which includes 14 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews who will dearly miss her presence.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to the nurses, CNAs, and staff at Wesley Community Care for the exceptional compassion and care provided to Lorraine during her four-year residency.

In keeping with Lorraine’s wishes, a private memorial service for the family will be held in the spring. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

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