Richard A. Hunsdorfer

Richard Arthur Hunsdorfer, 87

West Sand Lake - Richard Arthur Hunsdorfer passed away on January 21, 2010. He was 87 years old. A lifetime resident and lover of the Capital District, Richard made many contributions to the local community, as well as creating many enduring bounds of friendship with so many people in the area.

Born in Elsmere, Richard attended Albany Academy, graduating in 1940, where he had many close friends whom he continued to see up until his death. In 1944 he left Williams College, one month before earning his degree, to enlist in the Army and serve his country. He saw combat in France, an experience that profoundly affected him for the rest of his life. After the war, he spent a few years in France working in Graves Registration, where he experienced a freedom that inspired many fascinating stories. In 1948 he was called back home to help his ailing Father run the family business, Albany Steel, Iron & Supply Co.

He helped run the company profitably for many years, and in 1965 became its president. Under his watch, the company expanded from a small family business at 45 Broadway, to a much larger facility at 566 Broadway that had 80 employees. During this time Richard contributed much to the local community. He was a charter member of the Menand's Rotary (since 1949), and a board member of the Albany Rural Cemetery, as well as a member of the Fort Orange Club in Albany.

Richard retired in 1985 and spent the remainder of his years at his beloved home in West Sand Lake, where he loved nothing more than mowing his lawn and maintaining the property. He continued his community support by starting the RA Hunsdorfer Foundation, which donated to and supported many local interests including the Albany Rural Cemetery, Knickerbocker Historical Society, Oakwood Cemetery, the Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center, and many more.

Richard had three boys with his ex-wife Lois Hunsdorfer. His oldest son, Richard Jr. tragically predeceased him in 1979. They are now together. Richard is survived by Lois Hunsdorfer, sons Peter and Scott, and five beautiful grandchildren Todd, Ben, Timothy, Henry and Juliette, close personal friend and "sister" Deborah Herrey, numerous friends and acquaintances. His presence will be deeply missed.

There will be a memorial service at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church Elsmere Ave & Poplar Drive, Elsmere, NY on Thursday, January 28, at 11am. Interment will be in Albany Rural Cemetery Menands.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the RA Hunsdorfer Foundation at P.O. Box 444, West Sand Lake, NY 12196.

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