SARATOGA SPRINGS — Harry W. Croop Jr., who brought joy to all who knew him, died Friday, Dec. 12 at the age of 94.
Born in Kingston, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Dr. Harry Croop and Elizabeth (McCloskey) Croop. Growing up during the depression, and serving in the Army during World War II helped to mold his generous spirit and lifelong appreciation for simple pleasures.
Harry married Rosemary Shea, the sister of one of his childhood best friends, in 1948. He was a loving husband and caregiver to her until her death in 1984. He remarried in 1988 to Helen O’Reilly and they had a long and loving relationship.
Harry was an amazing father to Shea and Patti Croop. He embraced their friends and interests and supported them in their life choices (for the most part).
His dream of living in Saratoga Springs was realized in 1965 when he was promoted by Interlake/Acme Steel to be the company’s sales manager for the Northeast region. He subsequently left Interlake, accepting the position of sales manager for Powell & Minnock Brick Company in Albany. He took great pride in his company’s brick, and a number of Saratoga’s public structures are a testament to his persuasive nature and P&M’s quality product.
Harry had a strong sense of service and love of his community that was demonstrated by participating in numerous city projects and volunteering at SPAC, Literacy Volunteers, the Community Gardens, and Income Tax Preparation for Senior Citizens. He worked full time into his 70s, still making time to play tennis and ski with his daughters and golf with his friends. Throughout his life, he also loved gardening, bridge, crossword puzzles, traveling, the opera, ballet, ice cream and laughing.
Harry spent his last two years at Woodlawn Commons where he participated in every activity imaginable and touched the hearts of residents and staff alike. He made several special friends during this time, greatly enriching his final years.
The outstanding care he received from his doctors, Saratoga Hospital and Hospice ensured that his humanity was honored and his death was peaceful.
Survivors include his daughters Shea Croop of Queensbury, Patti Croop and her husband Chris Dailey of Middle Grove, his sister-in-law, Lillian Croop and numerous nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends may call from 9-11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 18 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518-584-5373. Funeral services will follow at 11am at the funeral home and burial will be in the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave.
To remember Harry, please send a contribution to The Community Hospice Foundation, 295 Valley View Blvd., Rensselaer, NY 12144; Literacy New York Greater Capital Region,1450 Western Avenue, Suite 101, Albany, NY 12205; or Saratoga Hospital, 211 Church Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
