ALBANY — Thaddeus (Ted) Ruchalski, 96, died peacefully early Saturday morning, February 20, 2016 at the Stratton VA Medical Center.
Born at home in Schenectady on March 29, 1919, he was the youngest child of Bronislaw and Rosalia Ruchalski. He lived most of his nearly 97 years in Rotterdam, NY.
Ted had a lifelong passion for hunting, fishing and camping. In the 1950s, he built a travel trailer of his own design. He was humble, hard-working, and a dedicated and devoted family man.
He proudly served in the 94th Infantry Division of the US Army during World War II. He earned a Bronze Star for his service at the Battle of the Bulge. After his retirement from the US Post Office in Schenectady, he traveled extensively throughout the US, attending 94th Infantry Division Association reunions with his wife, Kay. He remained an active member of the Association for over 25 years.
He was a founding and lifelong member of Holy Name of Jesus Polish National Catholic Church in Schenectady.
He is survived by his son, Thaddeus D. Ruchalski (Kathy) of Lawrenceville, GA; his daughter, Pamela C. Funiciello (Tom) of Saratoga Springs; his grandchildren, Alex A. Funiciello and Danielle K. Funiciello; his sister-in-law, Emily Ruchalski of Scotia; six nieces and four nephews.
Ted was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Mary Katherine Ruchalski, his sister, Marie Kowalski, and his brothers, Stanley and Ferdinand Ruchalski.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, February 24, 2016, at Holy Name of Jesus National Catholic Church, 1040 Pearl St., in Schenectady. Family and friends gathered at the church before Mass to share memories and condolences.
Burial with military honors took place at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery on Duell Road, Schuylerville.
Those who wish to make a memorial contribution are asked to give to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, whose support extended the time and quality of life Ted spent at home with family, or to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV.org) in gratitude for the help they have given to veterans returning disabled from combat for over 90 years.
Arrangements are under the direction of William J. Burke & Sons Funeral Homes of 628 N. Broadway in Saratoga Springs.
Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com
