http://www.simplechoicescremation.com/

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

05/09/2026

David "Woody" Wood

David “Woody” Wood, 69, of Troy, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026.Born on November 16, 1956, David proudly served his country in the United States Navy with Attack Squadron 192.

Following his military service, he worked at Al Tech in Watervliet until his retirement in 1999.David had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed camping, hunting, and fishing. He was also a fan of rat rod races and especially treasured the companionship of his beloved dog, Scout. Known for his easygoing nature and loyal friendship, Woody leaves behind many cherished memories with family and friends.

He is survived by his brother, Irving Wood; his sister, Louise Stierer; along with several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many dear friends.

A celebration of David’s life will be held on Saturday, May 16, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Veterans of Lansingburgh Center.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

View David "Woody" Wood's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/09/2026

Joseph Hadden

Joseph Jeromy Hadden, 51, of Albany, formerly of Newburgh and Middletown, passed away on May 4, 2026, at St. Peter's Hospital. He was born on May 29, 1974, at Horton Hospital in Middletown, New York, to the late Joseph Hadden and Elvira Darena Jenks.

Joseph was raised in Middletown, New York, and throughout his life lived in Middletown, Newburgh, and most recently Albany. He was a talented painter by trade and an artist at heart. Whether painting homes or creating artwork, Joe had a natural gift for working with his hands and bringing beauty to the world around him. Joe found peace and happiness in nature. He loved hiking, fishing, hunting, and gardening, and was known for having an incredible green thumb — he truly could grow anything. He was strong both mentally and physically, and there was very little he could not do. Above all else, Joe loved spending time with his family, who meant everything to him.

He is survived by his loving spouse and partner of more than 20 years, Aimee Monastero; his daughter, Crystal Hadden (James Mullins); and his cherished granddaughters, Savannah Spisso, Chloe Spisso, and Persephone Mullins. He is also survived by his brother, Jason Hadden (Adelaida), and their children Kerin, Jackie, Kathleen, Dillon, Samantha, Kyle, and Collin.

In addition to his parents, Joseph was predeceased by his sister, Amie Hadden. Joe will be remembered for his strength, creativity, love of nature, and deep devotion to his family. His presence, guidance, and love will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope House - The Bettes Center, 261 North Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12207.

View Joseph Hadden's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/09/2026

Lawrence S. Lieberman

MALTA- April 13, 2026 at age 75. Lawrence Steven Lieberman was born in Long Island, NY on September 14, 1950 to the late Evelyn (Weigel) and Harold Lieberman. He was predeceased by his brother, Alan Lieberman and many aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joan Salvi. They were married on October 7th, 2021. He is also survived by his three sons, Eric Lieberman, Ben Smiley, and Adam Lieberman; grandchildren Mia Smiley, Emerson Smiley, Tyler Smiley, and Kaia Chaillar; stepmother Arlene Solomon; brother Stewart Lieberman; many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Lawrence graduated from Hunter College in New York City (1980) with a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree and continued his studies at NYU, where he completed a Master of Education (M.Ed.), Special Education (1982). With nearly four decades of experience in clinical therapy, he was widely respected for his expertise and unwavering commitment to children’s emotional wellbeing. He worked as Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R) in the NYC Department of Education for 26 years. Post-retirement he started his own clinical practice specializing in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and children play-therapy in Staten Island, NY (2008).

In both his professional and personal life, Lawrence was known for being a relentless advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities. He served on the New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council (DDPC) for more than 35 years. He was an early champion of inclusive education, working to ensure that students with disabilities could learn alongside their peers in general education classrooms. He advanced this cause through more than 35 impartial hearings with the New York Board of Education. Because of his unwavering commitment, his son Eric, along with many other children in similar circumstances, were able to learn alongside their peers rather than in a segregated setting.

Lawrence had a jovial spirit- he loved hosting costume parties for friends- and a playful silly side earning him the nickname “Mad Dog” amongst his skiing buddies. He enjoyed traveling, reading, and having coffee with friends. Not a carpenter by trade, but as detailed as one, he loved creating spaces to share with family and friends, whether it was a backyard jungle gym, a wraparound pool deck (tiki bar included), or a greenhouse vegetable garden. He loved being close to water; being on his boat, swimming in his pool, or watching his seven koi fish swimming around his home-made pond.

However, Lawrence will be remembered most for his caring nature as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His superpower was in his tireless, persistent support for the people in his life. He was always there, offering guidance, and boisterous strength and heart whenever it was needed most.

The family will have a Celebration of Life at a later date.

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

05/02/2026

Henry Pawlak

ROTTERDAM -

Henry Pawlak, 86, of Rotterdam, passed away on April 24, 2026. Born in Poland on March 15, 1940, to Ignacy and Bronislawa (Pietrasek) Pawlak, Henry immigrated to the United States in 1951. He was a proud graduate of Mont Pleasant High School, Class of 1958.

A man of quiet strength and dedication, Henry served his country for four years in the United States Army. Following his military service, he built a long and respected career as a machinist at the General Electric Company in Schenectady.

On July 22, 1964, Henry married the love of his life, Maria E. (Gonzales) Pawlak, in Austin, Texas. Together, they built a life centered on family and simple joys. Henry was an avid fisherman and bowler who never missed a chance to cheer for his beloved NY Yankees. He had a sharp mind, often immersed in brain puzzles, and a soul that came alive when listening to Polish music or dancing.

Henry was predeceased by his siblings Laura Novakovic, Wladyslawa Pawlak, and Stanley Pawlak.

His memory will be cherished by his devoted wife, Maria; his children, Michael Eli Hernandez, James Pawlak, Cynthia (Weidman) Pawlak, and Rosanna (Willey) Pawlak; and his grandsons, Randall Stephan Bobik and Christopher Michael Bobik. He is also survived by his siblings Alexander Pawlak, Jane Agfalvi, and John Pawlak.

Services: A service will be held at Memory Gardens Memorial Park in late July or early August, followed by a celebration of life. Henry will be laid to rest in Memory Gardens, Colonie.

Memorial Contributions: In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Community Hospice, Gift Processing Center, 310 S. Manning Boulevard, Albany, NY 12208 (www.communityhospice.org).

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

View Henry Pawlak's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/02/2026

James Merriman Russell

ALBANY -

James Merriman Russell of Albany, New York, passed away on March 12, 2026, at the age of 84.

Born on April 16, 1941, in New Rochelle, New York, he was the son of William Edwards Russell and Helen Marie Merriman Russell and grew up in Pelham, New York.

Jim was a member of Russell and Russell, the family law firm established by his grandfather, William E. Russell, in 1913. Over the course of his career, he practiced with his grandfather, his father, and his brother, continuing a proud multigenerational legal tradition.

He attended Williams College for his undergraduate education, earned his Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School, and later received a master's degree in taxation from New York University. Admitted to the bar in 1966, he built a distinguished career in trusts and estates, taxation, and investment-related work, and remained active in the legal profession through organizations including the Association of the Bar of the City of New York and the Young Lawyers Committee. Jim was intellectually gifted, a quality evident to everyone who met him.

He was also a knowledgeable history buff, with a particular love of Civil War history.

He is survived by his son, William Russell; his stepchildren, Ann Russell and Andres Alberdi; his children, Michael, Elizabeth, and Stephen; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His cremains will be buried in the Russell family plot in Valhalla, NY in Westchester County. Contributions may be made to Alzheimer's research.

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

View James Merriman Russell's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/02/2026

Florence Hartman

SCHENECTADY -

Florence Hartman joined her family in heaven on April 28, 2026 at 4:00pm from the Ellis Hospital after an extended period of illness.

Born on February 15, 1944, in Niskayuna to Rauol and Mariette "Manny" Moreau, Florence was a longtime resident of the Rotterdam and Schenectady areas. She was a dedicated professional who spent 18 years driving for the Mohonasen School District, a role where she was a familiar face to generations of local students.

On February 28, 1981, she married Joel Hartman, Sr. at the Fisher United Methodist Church in Rotterdam. Together, they shared 45 years of marriage and built a large, loving family.She is survived by her devoted husband, Joel; her children, Michael Wilson, Jeffrey Wilson, and Debbie Wilson (Vedder); and her stepchildren, Thomas, Patty, Christopher Hartman, and Joel Hartman, Jr.

Her legacy continues through her nine grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her brother, Danny Moreau. Florence was predeceased by her parents and her siblings: Francis, Muriel, Louise, and Henry.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Ellis Hospital and Simple Choices for their care and support.

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

View Florence Hartman's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/25/2026

Bruce A. Armer

SPRAKERS -

Bruce Armer, 73, of Sprakers, New York, passed away on April 22, 2026.

Born in Amsterdam, New York, on September 6, 1952, Bruce lived a life centered on family, simple joys, and the people he loved most. On August 3, 2003, Bruce married the love of his life, Ruth, and together they shared many cherished years and memories. Bruce was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ruth; his daughters, Faye Carpenter and Nona Lane; his sons, Brian Armer, Robert Brown, and Sean Brown and his wife, Erin. He also leaves behind many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including his special “partners in crime,” Jayden and Mackenzie, who brought him endless joy.Bruce was predeceased by his father, Ralph Armer; his stepmother, Rita; his mother, Anne; and his daughter, Billie Jo Bailey.Bruce found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved to read, spend time watching his favorite shows, enjoy NASCAR racing, and work in his garden. Above all, he treasured Sunday dinners with his family, where laughter, stories, and togetherness filled the table.Bruce will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.There will be no funeral services at this time. The family plans to hold a private memorial service in the near future. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Bruce A. Armer's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/24/2026

Celeste J. Sodano

NISKAYUNA –

Major Celeste (Sodano) was a woman of "firsts" and a gentle heart. A retired 20-year veteran of the New York Army National Guard, she was a pioneer for women in the service and a recipient of the Army Commendation Medal. In her retirement, she poured her love into her beautiful gardens, her family and dear friends.

A New Jersey-born native, Celeste made her home in Upstate New York in the Town of Niskayuna, where she was an avid gardener. She was generous to everyone she met—family, friend, and stranger alike. Her legacy of kindness and strength lives on through her siblings and her many nieces and nephews of New Jersey as well as her close and dear friends of New York. She leaves behind a world made more beautiful by her gardens, her service to our country and her kindness unto others.

Celeste passed away on March 24, 2026 in the comfort of her own home and was laid to rest with military honors on April 14, 2026 in St. Vincent’s Cemetery, Madison, New Jersey through her family.

Her friends in New York have arranged for a local Celebration of Life for Celeste to be held on Friday, May 15, 2026 from 3-7 pm at the Iron and Ale Grill & Bar at the Town of Colonie Golf Course, located at: 418 Consaul Road, Schenectady, NY 12304.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Celeste J. Sodano's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/24/2026

Stephanie Pearl Stitham

HUDSON –

Stephanie Stitham, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away on April 5, 2026, at Columbia Memorial Health in Hudson, New York, after complications from leg surgery. Born on October 26, 1977, in Sharon, Connecticut, Stephanie was the cherished daughter of Pearl and Richard Ackerman Sr.

Throughout her 48 years of life, Stephanie illuminated the world with her kindness and compassion. She was a dedicated employee at Walmart in Hudson, New York, where she worked as a cashier for seven years until 2025. Her role at Walmart was more than just a job; it was an opportunity to extend her generous spirit to both coworkers and customers alike. Stephanie was known for her unwavering dedication and remarkable ability to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Her big heart touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

Stephanie's life was a testament to her boundless love and devotion to her family. She is survived by her loving husband, Shawn Stitham Sr, who was her constant companion and source of strength. Her legacy continues through her daughter, Sammantha Cheyennee Mantone and her husband Samuel Joseph Mantone IV, her sons David Lashomb Jr, Skyler Lashomb, Wesley Funk, and Shawn Stitham Jr, and the joy of her life—her two grandchildren. Stephanie's family was the center of her universe, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments and cherished every moment spent together.

She is also survived by her father, Richard Ackerman Sr, her brothers, Richard Ackerman Jr and Michael Grassel, and her aunts, Terry Murnane and Helen Anderson. Stephanie shared a special bond with her close friends, Michael Peacock, Melissa Torborg and LeaAnn Swart, and their families, who provided steadfast support and love throughout her life.

Stephanie was predeceased by her mother, Pearl Ackerman, aunts Jenny Clough, Pam, and Frosty (Florence), her uncle Alan Ackerman, and her infant daughter Katana. Her seven infant grandchildren and other beloved family members also preceded her in death. Though their time together was brief, Stephanie cherished and deeply loved each of them.

To those who knew her, Stephanie was a beacon of warmth, always ready to offer a comforting word or a helping hand. Her infectious smile and gentle spirit will be dearly missed, yet her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

In honor of Stephanie's extraordinary life, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Her family finds solace in the outpouring of love and support from friends and loved ones during this difficult time. As they mourn her passing, they also celebrate the beautiful life she led and the love she so freely shared.

Gone but never forgotten, Stephanie Stitham’s legacy of kindness and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her family invites you to join them in remembering and honoring her life, as they hold her memory close to their hearts.

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

View Stephanie Pearl Stitham's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/23/2026

Judith DeMarco

SCHENECTADY –

Judith A. DeMarco (Judi), 81, of Schenectady, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026 at Ellis Hospital with her children by her side.

Judi was born, March 13, 1945 and was the daughter of the late Margaret Fortier Caringi.

Judi was a lifelong Schenectady resident. She graduated from Mohonasen High School with the class of 1963. Her senior class is responsible for the orange and black school colors still being used today. Judi was a Candy Striper at St. Clare’s Hospital during her early teens.

Judi spent the spring and summer months cheering on the NY Mets and spent the fall and winter months cheering for her beloved Dallas Cowboys…she sure did LUVDBOYS!

Judi worked as an insurance agent for more than 50 years working for a few different agencies. Her last place of employment was The Guilbeau Insurance Agency in Scotia. She was nearly 80 when she finally “retired”. Her customers would still call her with changes, which she would, in turn, call the agency to have the changes made. She loved all her customers and they loved her.

Judi was a proud member of Federation of New York Insurance Professionals for many, many years and had gone to numerous yearly conventions with the 2025 convention being her final appearance. She was a past president, a title she was very proud of. Most recently she was charged with gathering all the personal information she could from all the “newbies”. She made a list of questions from spouse’s name to pets and children. She diligently called every one of the new members and rattled off her list of questions and, by the end of the conversation, had a new friend. Judi would then proudly announce all the new members and tell a little story, like she’d known them forever!

Judi was also a bowling coach with NYS Special Olympics for 30 years. She often referred to them as “my bowlers” and was always at the lanes, cheering them on. She became friends with a lot families throughout her years coaching. Judi also volunteered her time with Hospice, The AIDS Council & Literacy Volunteers.

Judi is survived by her daughter, Jodi (Jim) Liegeot and her son, Cory DeMarco. Her pride and joy was her grandson Noah (Abby) DeMarco. She also has 2 granddaughters and several cousins.

Memorial contributions, in Judi’s name, can be made to The American Cancer Society, PO Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 or to IPHNY, 176 Sheridan Ave, Albany, NY 12210.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Judith DeMarco's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Simple Choices, Inc. Cremation Service

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