Obituary of Leonard J. Berschwinger

CLIFTON PARK- Leonard J. (Bud) Berschwinger passed away peacefully August 23rd at Saratoga Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Bud had celebrated his 93rd birthday just three weeks earlier on August 2nd. Born in Albany, Bud was the son of the late Leonard F. and Anna Berschwinger. He is survived by his wife Janis; his children; Leonard [Richard], David (Cathy), Patricia Headwell (Keith), Michael (Fleda) and Robert (Rebecca) and their families; his stepchildren Melody Goetz (Paul), and George Jones and their families, all of whom loved him deeply and will treasure his memory. He also leaves behind his brother Richard (Yvonne), daughter in law Dawn Berschwinger, 12 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Anne Bastiani, his brother Frederick (Mick), his former wife G. Jeanne Berschwinger, and stepdaughter Kimberly Jones. He was a proud veteran of the US Navy, serving from 1945-1946. Bud was a well-known area building contractor having built and remodeled numerous homes in the area. He was well known for his superior craftsmanship, easy going personality, and was always there to lend a hand to a friend or family member in need. He loved fishing in the Adirondacks and the yearly last week of August trips to Chateaugay Lake. Later in life, he and Janis built a “camp” in Lake Luzerne where they spent many enjoyable times with family and friends. He loved gardening, playing horseshoes, fixing anything that needed fixing, and just loved being with his family and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. A big part of his legacy is his role in establishing what will forever be recognized as “Grampie Jokes”. Some may find them a little corny, but we all treasure them all, and promise to carry on this tradition. Bud was very involved in the community. He was a lifetime member of the Guilderland Center Fire Dept where he served as President and Captain. He also was a member of the Board of Fire Commissioners and served a term as Chairman. He also enjoyed his position as the head coach of the GCFD baseball team in the old Altamont Little League, coaching all four of his boys along with many others over several years.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, August 31, 2020 from 10AM -12:30PM with a funeral service to follow. Interment at Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville.

Due to COVID-19, we ask that you practice social distancing and wear a mask.

A special thanks to the staff at Saratoga Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the love and care they gave Bud during his time there. The family recognizes and appreciates the love and support of our friends and relatives but understands the limitations COVID places on all of us. Please know that if you cannot be with us in person, that we know you are with us in spirit. Thank you. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post 977, Helderberg Riders, 988 Altamont Blvd., Altamont, NY 12009 or to St. Edward the Confessor Church 569 Clifton Park Center Rd, Clifton Park, NY 12065.