Fredendall Funeral Home Obituaries

Introduction to Fredendall Funeral Home

Fredendall Funeral Home, located in Altamont, NY, has been a pillar of the community for many years, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, Fredendall Funeral Home has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted and respected funeral homes in the area.

A Brief History of Fredendall Funeral Home

Fredendall Funeral Home was founded on a deep commitment to serving the community with dignity and respect. The funeral home's history is rooted in a tradition of excellence, with a focus on providing personalized and meaningful funeral services that honor the lives of loved ones. Over the years, Fredendall Funeral Home has remained dedicated to this mission, adapting to the changing needs of the community while remaining true to its core values.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Vivian Pickering - October 01, 1927 - August 23, 2019

Departed: 08/23/2019 (Altamont)

Obituary Preview: Albany- Vivian Higgins Pickering, 91, of Albany, NY; formerly of Keene, NH passed peacefully on August 23, 2019.

Vivian was born on October 1, 1927 in Springfield, MA. She worked as an office manager of Cheshire Oil Company in Keene for thirty years. After retirement, Vivian and her husband Bob spent their winters in Florida and vacationed in Jamaica, Bermuda and California. Vivian and Bob celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 2007. Vivian enjoyed golfing, bowling, needlepoint, doing volunteer work with her church and spending summers with her grandchildren.

Vivian is survived by her daughter Devida DePalma; her granddaughters Lauren E. Leonard (Randall Partridge Jr.) and Alison G. Leonard (Adam Karazuba); her great grandson Michael N. Karazuba; her daughter-in-law Paula J. Leonard; many nieces, nephews, extended family members and close friends; and her dog Timmy. All will miss Vivian dearly.

She was predeceased by her parents Ralph and Elizabeth Higgins; her husband Robert Willard Pickering (2008), her son Lyndon Michael Leonard (2018); her dog Brody.

A private memorial service and interment will be held in Keene, NH.

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James Joseph Davis - June 26, 1958 - November 24, 2015

Departed: 11/24/2015 (Altamont)

Obituary Preview: GRAND GORGE NY:

James J. Davis Jr. Funeral arrangements :

Wake is 6pm to 8pm Friday Nov. 27, 2015 at Decker Funeral Home on Main Street, Windham, N.Y. Burial is Saturday, Nov. 28, 2015 at 11:30 am at Union Cemetery, 1076 Violet Ave., Hyde Park, NY Reception to follow at the Methodist Church of Poughkeepsie, 2381 New Hackensack Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12603

Jimmy was born at 2:11 am on June 26, 1958 in St. Francis Hospital in Poughkeepsie, NY. To James {Sr.} and Jennie Auchmoody Davis. He passed from this life on Nov. 24, 2015 at 10 am in Cooperstown, NY.

Jimmy grew up on Cardinal Rd., East Park, NY and spent many happy days with his grandparents Moses and Hazel {Shook} Auchmoody. He had wonderful memories from a happy and carefree childhood. His Grandchildren delighted in hearing him reminisce about the beauty he found in the simplicity and innocence of those days.

In 1962, Jimmy met his future wife, Doris Jean Hammell in her grandparents store on Hamilton Street in Poughkeepsie. They were blessed with an extraordinary friendship and abiding love that spanned throughout their lives.

Jim was an intelligent and thoughtful man who loved to read and he was reading to the day he died. Jimmy accepted every person he met, as he found them, with an open and honest heart. He was a kind and gentle man who was loved by many people. Children and animals befriended him throughout his life. Jimmy was an astonishingly decent man who has left many bereaved at his passing.

Jimmy is survived by his wife of 31 yrs, Doris, his first wife, Kathie Devens Stroka, who he married on Aug. 20, 1976 in Rhinebeck, NY, his two daughters of that union, Jammie (Fay) Johnson of Germantown and Niomi (Randy Adamshack) Davis of Hudson, his son, Franklin (Brittney) Davis of Davenport , his stepdaughters, Alyssa (Nathan) Mahar of Oneonta and Alice (Wayne) Parr of Pleasant Valley, 8 grandchildren, Olivia Johnson, James Davis, Evan Johnson, Layne Adamshack, Elizabeth Davis, Abigail Parr, Anna Johnson and Maximus Moses Davis, Neice, Rachel (Cookie) Swartz, brother in law, Craig Cassidy of Pleasant Valley, several sisters & brothers in law, many neices and nephews, best friends, Timmy Wilber of Cairo and Tina Smith of Saugerties, childhood friends, Ben Race of Fort Plain and John Sheffield of Salt Point.

Two very special friends who helped him greatly through his terrible illness, Darlene Mattice of Prattsville and Lucy Veneski of Lexington. Without their help, his passing would have been much harder.

Jimmy was predeceased by his parents, his grandparents, Moses and Hazel, his sister, Jennie Berry and his much loved friend, John Myers.

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Violet Empie - July 06, 1912 - May 09, 2015

Departed: 05/09/2015 (Altamont)

Obituary Preview: GUILDERLAND CENTER

Violet A. Empie passed on May 9, 2015

Vi was born July 6, 1912 in the Town of Knox, New York to Clifford and Retha Sholtes. The family moved to Guilderland Center when she was 2 years old and lived there the rest of her life.

She attended the Cobblestone School in Guilderland Center and was graduated from Albany High School, class of 1930. Vi worked for the New York Telephone Company for two years. She met and married Luther Empie, who soon became postmaster and owner of Empie's Food Market in Guilderland Center. Luther and Vi had three sons.

Vi was a faithful member and worker of Helderberg Reformed Church. She was a member of several groups including "Up and Doing Class" and the Helderberg Reformed Church Women's Group. She helped with the annual clam bakes, other church suppers and packed missionary barrels. She joined the senior choir at the age of eleven and became pianist of the Sunday school of the old Church that burned down before there were individual classrooms.

Vi loved horseback riding, dancing, golfing, swimming, skating and belonged to several bridge, poker and pinochle clubs in addition to bowling leagues.

Mrs. Empie was a postal employee for many years serving as acting postmaster during World War II while husband Luther was in the service. She became postmaster following Luther's death in July, 1969 and retired from the post office in 1974.

Vi loved nature and enjoyed doing things outdoors. But the most gratifying activity in her life was singing. In addition to singing in the church choir most of her life, Vi also sang with the community singing group "Suburban Sounds", performing at lodges, nursing homes, weddings and gave two major concerts yearly. While a member of the ecumenical choir, "Festival of Praise", Vi had the experience of performing many concerts at SPAC, singing at the opening of the New York State Museum on the Empire State Plaza, St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City and the National Cathedral, Washington, D.C.

Old time memories Vi recalled were: seeing Babe Ruth hit a homerun and Francis X. Bushman in live Vaudeville, dancing to the live music of Rudy Valle and Fred Waring Bands, dancing every night (except Sundays) through the month of August at Warner Lake Pavilion to the live music of the Jim Wagner's Band and swimming the length of Warner Lake.

Vi loved cruises and made many visits to several islands in the Caribbean and Greek Islands and sailed through the Panama Canal.

Other pleasant memories include: moonlight cruises on the Mississippi River aboard the "Natches", kissing the Blarney Stone, riding in a 2 wheel horse drawn cart in Ireland, being serenaded by a gondolier on a canal in Venice, and walking under Niagra Falls. Additionally: guest driving a horse drawn, sign seeing carriage in Boston, seeing St. Augustine in a horse drawn carriage withfrindge on top, ascending the Eiffel Tower and enjoying the view from the top, cruise on S'wame River and cruises down the Hudson River on luxurious boats named from presidents. Also; sailing through the beautiful Fiords of Scandinavia, riding up a mountain in a horse drawn, 2 seated wagon through an olive grove on a Greek island and digging for clams on Nantucket. Vi didn't forget the Alamo or the wonders of Stonehenge, the Leaning Tower of Pizza or the Coliseum, the rain forests of South America or San Juan. Vi also recalled a month long (September) bus tour of our country taking a northern route to the State of Washington, down the coast and staying a few days at numerous points of interest and returning via a southern route, all rain free, except for one day in California.

In addition to traveling, Vi spent many hours at Duane Lake in Duanesburg. From the time she and Luther built the camp in 1947, summers were spent there enjoying fishing, sailing, canoeing, swimming and playing cards on the porch with the family and friends. She also mentioned ice skating parties with toasted marshmallows in front of the camp's fireplace.

Vi was stricken with Poly Myalgia Rheumatica in 1988 which curtailed all physical activities. She was however, after six years, back on the golf course (with a motorized cart) and played regularly until she was 90 when she fractured her foot. In August of 2011, Mrs. Empie experienced a minor stroke and spent a short time in St. Peter's Hospital. She was moved to Our Lady of Mercy Life Center of Guilderland in late August of that year. In February of 2012 she returned to her home in Guilderland Center where she rested the rest of her earthly life.

Besides her parents , Vi is predeceased by her husband Luther (1969) a brother Clyde Sholtes, sisters Clara Brate, Esther King, Florence Sholtes and Hazel Sholtes who died in infancy and fiancé Albert Buttino. Vi is survived by three sons: Reg and wife Mary Lu of Arizona, Bryan of Guilderland Center and Denny of Schenectady. Also two grandchildren: Lisa and husband David Totemoff of Alaska and Eric and his partner Dan Carillo of Arizona, additionally several nieces and nephews.

Vi selected the following poem by Elizabeth Craven to summarize her love of life, and nature:

"For All These Things and a Thousand More.."

I thank Thee God, that I have lived

In this great world and known its many joys;

The song of birds, the strong, sweet scent of hay

And the cooling breezes in the secret dusk,

The flaming sunsets at the close of day,

Hills, and the lonely, heather-covered moors,

Music at night, and the moonlight on the sea,

The beat of waves upon the rocky shore,

And wild, white spray, flung high in ecstasy:

The faithful eyes of dogs, and treasured books,

The love of kin and fellowship of friends,

And all that makes life dear and beautiful.

For all these things and a thousand more,

I thank Thee, God, that I have lived.

I thank Thee, too that there has come to me

A little heartache and the loneliness

That comes with parting, and the word, "Goodbye,"

Dawn breaking after dreary hours of pain,

When I discovered that night's gloom must yield

And morning light break through to me again.

Because of these and other blessings poured

Unmasked upon my wondering head,

Because I know there is yet to come

An even richer and more glorious life,

And most of all, because Thine only Son

Once sacrificed life's loveliness for me-

I thank Thee, God, that I have lived.

As requested, there will be no services held. Cremains will be scattered at the Reformed Church Cemetery next to her husband Luther, near a stone wall on a favorite golf course and in the woods at her camp at Dwane Lake.

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Ellwood A. Chappell - October 10, 1924 - September 10, 2011

Departed: 09/10/2011 (Altamont)

Obituary Preview: Guilderland- Ellwood A. "Chappy" Chappell, 86, died on Saturday, September 10, 2011. He is survived by his wife of 66 years Elizabeth "Betty" Chappell; a daughter Kathy (Dwight) Sickler of Guilderland; Three Grandchildren, Debbie (Ron) Franzer of Guilderland, Matt (Marcy Sickler of Alplaus, NY, and Charlene (Andy) Sanna of Boston, MA; Six Great Grandchildren, Matthew and Mark Beliveau, Charles, Valerie and Clayton Sickler, Caleb Sanna. He is also survived by a sister Dorothy Ouilette. A Committal Service will be held at 12 PM on Friday September 16, 2011at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.

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Services Offered by Fredendall Funeral Home

Fredendall Funeral Home offers a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, memorial services, and pre-planning, the funeral home's experienced staff is dedicated to guiding families through the funeral planning process with compassion and understanding. Some of the specific services offered by Fredendall Funeral Home include:

• Traditional funeral services with visitation and burial
• Cremation services with memorialization options
• Memorial services and celebrations of life
• Pre-planning and pre-funding options
• Grief support and counseling services

The Facility at Fredendall Funeral Home

The facility at Fredendall Funeral Home is designed to provide a warm and welcoming environment for families and friends to gather and celebrate the life of their loved one. The funeral home's spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while smaller rooms are available for more intimate services. The facility is also equipped with modern amenities, including audio-visual equipment and comfortable seating areas.

The Staff at Fredendall Funeral Home

The staff at Fredendall Funeral Home is comprised of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional service to each family they serve. From licensed funeral directors to support staff, every member of the team is committed to ensuring that every detail is attended to with care and compassion. The staff at Fredendall Funeral Home understands that losing a loved one is never easy, and they are dedicated to making the funeral planning process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Community Involvement and Partnerships

Fredendall Funeral Home is deeply committed to giving back to the community they serve. Through partnerships with local organizations and charities, the funeral home is able to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them. Some of the ways in which Fredendall Funeral Home gives back to the community include:

• Sponsoring local events and charities
• Providing educational resources on grief support and funeral planning
• Offering free or low-cost services to those in need

What Sets Fredendall Funeral Home Apart

So what sets Fredendall Funeral Home apart from other funeral homes in the area? It's their unwavering commitment to excellence, their attention to detail, and their dedication to serving each family with compassion and understanding. At Fredendall Funeral Home, families can expect:

• Personalized service tailored to their unique needs
• A focus on celebrating the life of their loved one
• A commitment to excellence in every aspect of funeral planning
• A supportive and caring environment during a difficult time

Contacting Fredendall Funeral Home

If you're looking for a funeral home that will provide your family with exceptional service, compassion, and understanding, look no further than Fredendall Funeral Home. Located in Altamont, NY, the funeral home can be reached by mail at PO Box 458, Altamont, NY, 12009. To learn more about the services offered by Fredendall Funeral Home or to speak with a member of their experienced staff, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including biographical information, funeral or memorial service details, and surviving family members. It serves as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with friends, family, and community.

What is the purpose of an obituary?

The primary purpose of an obituary is to inform others of a person's passing, provide information about their life, and announce funeral or memorial service arrangements. It also serves as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by a family member, close friend, or funeral home staff. The writer may draw from personal experiences, memories, and stories shared by others to create a meaningful tribute to the deceased.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the deceased person's name, age, date of birth and death, cause of death (optional), occupation, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include funeral or memorial service details, burial information, and any charitable organizations or donations in lieu of flowers.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise yet informative, ranging from 100 to 500 words. Longer obituaries may be more suitable for online platforms or private memorials.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or multiple photos with the obituary. This can help personalize the tribute and make it more engaging for readers.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

You can usually submit an obituary through the publication's website, email, or by contacting their obituary department directly. Be sure to follow their guidelines and deadlines for submission.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication, word count, and additional features such as photos or special layouts. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars for print publications, while online platforms may offer free or low-cost options.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary as a way to control the narrative and ensure their story is told accurately. This can be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and legacy.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

Can I include humor or lighthearted moments in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary should reflect the personality and spirit of the deceased. Including humorous anecdotes or lighthearted stories can help celebrate their life and bring comfort to those who are grieving.

How do I handle sensitive or difficult information in an obituary?

When dealing with sensitive topics such as cause of death or complicated relationships, it's essential to approach the subject with tact and compassion. Consider consulting with family members or a funeral director for guidance on how to handle these situations.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes! Quotes, lyrics, or poems can add depth and meaning to an obituary. They can help convey the deceased person's values, personality, or favorite sayings.

What is the best way to share an obituary on social media?

You can share an obituary on social media by copying and pasting the text into a post or creating a link to the online version. Be respectful of privacy settings and consider sharing it within closed groups or with specific friends and family members.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Online platforms may publish immediately, while print publications may take several days or weeks.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, changes cannot be made once an obituary has been published. However, some online platforms may allow corrections or updates within a certain timeframe.

What if I need to correct errors in an already published obituary?

Contact the publication or online platform directly to report any errors. They will guide you through their correction process and work to rectify any mistakes as quickly as possible.

Can I reuse an obituary for multiple publications?

Yes! You can reuse an obituary for multiple publications, but be sure to check each publication's guidelines and formatting requirements before submitting.

How do I preserve an obituary for future generations?

You can preserve an obituary by saving a physical copy, printing it from online platforms, or creating a digital archive. Consider scanning or digitizing old newspapers for long-term preservation.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Absolutely! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased person's legacy and continue their impact.

What if I'm struggling to write an obituary due to grief or emotional distress?

It's understandable to feel overwhelmed when writing an obituary during a difficult time. Consider seeking support from friends, family members, or a professional writer who can help you craft a meaningful tribute.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an obituary for someone who was young or died unexpectedly?

When writing an obituary for someone who died young or unexpectedly, it's essential to approach the situation with sensitivity and compassion. Focus on celebrating their life and accomplishments rather than dwelling on the circumstances of their passing.

Can I include personal anecdotes or stories in an obituary?

Absolutely! Personal anecdotes and stories can bring warmth and humanity to an obituary. They help paint a vivid picture of the deceased person's life and personality.

How do I ensure that an online obituary remains accessible over time?