Obituary of Joseph M. Szomjassy

Joe Szomjassy, 70, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep at home on February 5, 2024.

“Joey” to his family, he was the son of Michael “Doc” Szomjassy and Mary Santandrea Szomjassy, who preceded him in death, and is survived by his older brother Michael (Elaine) Szomjassy of Atlanta; four nieces, Rebecca (James) Duncan, Melissa (Jonathan) Durkee, Mary Brown, and Laura (Tom) Sodergren; and 15 great-nieces and -nephews. As importantly, he had several first cousins, Anthony, Diane (Jerry) and Ed (Pat) and their children and other wonderful cousins in Albany with whom he often celebrated holidays and family occasions. The entire extended family adored him for his quiet but always happy demeanor, not to mention his brownies and pizza frite.

Joe grew up in Newtonville, NY and spent his entire life in his family home there. He went to St. Brigid’s Elementary School, The Vincentian Institute High School in Albany and spent two years at Siena College. He worked for Pembrook Electric Co for more than 47 years, who treated him like family. Joe was a faithful parishioner at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Latham, where he ushered evening Mass every Saturday, was on the Parish Council and loved cooking for the parish barbecues and social events. Even at 70 he was like a kid himself, and his joyous nature always showed it. Joe loved puzzles and playing all kinds of games, from Scrabble to kickball to Gin Rummy, especially if he was playing them with his great-nieces, great-nephews or cousins. Joe liked to golf with his great friend Jerry, and recently developed an obsession with pickleball. He absolutely loved the NY Yankees and the NY Giants, seldom missing games on TV, and he was a die-hard Notre Dame fan in every sport. An avid and very accomplished bowler, he was in one league for more than 45 years. Joe bowled multiple perfect games; his rings for these feats were among his most treasured possessions and he loved it when someone asked about them. Nonetheless, he was the most humble, patient, kind hearted, nicest person that you would ever meet. He was the first person friends and relatives would call to ask for help, and he never refused. A life well lived, he was a true gentle soul, who made the world a better place.

Visitation is at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 498 Watervliet Shaker Rd, Latham on Monday Feb. 12 from 4-7 pm. Joe’s funeral Mass will be at 10 am Tuesday at the same location, with internment at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, 1389 Central Avenue, Colonie. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Latham, NY.  ( olalatham.com )