Richard "Butch" Brimmer

View the funeral service and last call below

Wynantskill – Richard “Butch” Brimmer, 83, passed away on Monday, March 24, 2025, at Albany Medical Center Hospital, surrounded by family, after a brief illness.

Born in Troy, he was the son of the late Elmer Brimmer and Mildred Hayner Brimmer and the beloved husband of 60 years to Gail E. Minkler Brimmer. A lifelong resident of the Troy and Wynantskill areas, Butch was a graduate of Troy High School.

Butch began his career as an auto mechanic at Bumstead Chevrolet specializing in both Corvair and Subaru repairs. After its closing, he opened his own auto repair shop in Albia, where he found great joy in both his work and the friendships he built with his customers. Later, he pursued his lifelong passion by taking ownership of the Terminal Tavern, where laughter, camaraderie, and good times were always in abundance. There was never a dull moment or an empty seat at the bar. Before his retirement, he also worked at the Rensselaer County Family Court.

Butch was a Past Chief and Exempt Fireman of the Wynantskill Fire Department, where he took great pride in restoring the Gray Ghost alongside his closest friends. A devoted NASCAR fan, he never missed a race, always cheering for his favorite driver. He was also a lifelong member of the CRAB Club, where he treasured his afternoon visits with friends.

Above all, Butch’s greatest joy was his family. In addition to his beloved wife, Gail, he is survived by his loving son, Richard (Jill) Brimmer of Poestenkill; his cherished grandchildren, Zachary and Alyssa Brimmer, who were his pride and joy; his sister, Alma DeFazio of Sand Lake; his special sister-in-law, Karen Brimmer; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings, Ronald Brimmer, Robert E. Brimmer, and Patricia M. (Don) Waters.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at Bryce Funeral Home, Inc., 276 Pawling Avenue, Troy, on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 4 to 7 PM.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 10 AM at the funeral home with Fr. Larry Anderson, OFM, officiating.

Interment will follow at Eagle Mills Cemetery, Eagle Mills.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Butch’s honor to the Wynantskill Fire Department (PO Box 174, Wynantskill, NY 12198) or the North Greenbush Ambulance (PO Box 99, Wynantskill, NY 12198).

To share a memory, offer condolences, light a candle, view the video or view service details, please visit brycefuneralhome.com.

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