Ignatius J. DeGenero

Wynantskill  - Ignatius DeGenero, 99, of 397 Whiteview Road North Greenbush died suddenly Monday, August 5, 2024, at Samaritan Hospital Troy. Born in Troy, he was son of the late Sergio DeGenero and Rosaria LaGrasta DeGenero and husband for 70 years of Elizabeth “Bette” Gaddis DeGenero, with whom he shared a very happy life and created a loving family. He was the devoted father of Theresa (Joseph) Radici, Dr. Thomas (Marie) DeGenero, Titiana Forero, and Timothy (Margot) DeGenero. Survivors also include a brother, Angelo DeGenero, seven loving grandchildren: Brianna, Alessandra (Mark) D’Addario, Michael, Sarah, Micaela, Nicolas and Raphael, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters, Angeline, Anna, Lucia Rizzo, Rosalyn Moss and Martha Kyme and brothers Joseph, and Carrado as well as a granddaughter, Michelle Radici.

Ignatius, often called Iggy, Lefty or Papa, was a graduate of Troy High School and resided in Wynantskill for 69 years. He was a line foreman for Niagara Mohawk Power Company for 32 years, retiring 38 years ago. He was a life member of IBEW since 1953.
 
He was a WWII Army veteran serving in the 2nd Infantry Division. He entered the European Theater through Omaha Beach and fought bravely until being captured at St. Lo, Normandy and held as a prisoner of war in Germany, in the POW camp Stalag VIIA. He was liberated on VE Day. He received numerous medals, including a bronze star. He always said he did not need publicity; he was just doing his job.

Just last month, he was fortunate enough to return to Omaha Beach after 80 years to retrace his steps alongside his wife and children. To quote Iggy, “I’ll remember this for the rest of my life”. 

Most treasured moments were spent with his family, enjoying wintering in Florida and traveling throughout the USA in their motor home. He was an avid golfer and dedicated Yankees fan. He enjoyed meals and games at family gatherings, including Scrabble and Cribbage wars. Iggy enjoyed a good glass of wine and his dark chocolates and would often say “La Famiglia e Tutto” (Family is everything).

Relatives and friends may call at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc. 276 Pawling Avenue Troy on Sunday, August 11, 2024 from 4-7 PM. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 9 AM at St. Michael the Archangel Church Williams Road Troy with Rev. Edward Kacerguis. 

Interment will be in Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in memory of Ignatius DeGenero to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105. We recommend using the brycefuneralhome.com website to share or send condolences, light a candle, view videos or for service directions.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ignatius J. DeGenero, please visit our floral store.