GUILDERLAND - John J. Byrne, 85, of Guilderland, passed away on Friday , October 15, 2010 at his residence. He was born in Clyde's Bank Scotland and was the son of the late Andrew and Margaret Ellis Byrne.
John was raised in Albany and graduated from St. Joseph's Academy. He served in the US Navy during WWII. John was employed with New York State Health Department, Division of Labs & Research from 1946 through 1983. Following his retirement, he was a longtime volunteer at the former Villa Mary Immaculate Nursing Home in Albany. John, an outgoing and friendly man, was proud of his Irish heritage. His warmth and unique sense of humor will be dearly missed by all. He enjoyed reading the New York newspapers and following sports, especially the New York Yankees.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Catherine Yanko Byrne; his sons, John J. (Diane) Byrne Jr. and Michael (Mary Rita) Byrne; his grandsons Ian and Andrew Byrne. He is the brother of Beatrice Flanders, Margaret Byrne and the late Mary Rose Walsh. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be Tuesday morning at 9:00 at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd. Colonie then to Christ the King Church at 10:00 where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Calling hours will be Monday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home. The parish family of Christ the King will gather at 5:30 for a service of prayer and remembrance. All are welcome. Interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands.