Alan L. Kratzke Sr.

With a heavy heart, we share the passing of Alan (Big Al, Al) Louis Kratzke Sr, 77, husband of Nanette Kratzke of Rotterdam Junction, passed away Monday March 24, 2025 at Ellis hospital surrounded by family.

Born August 26, 1947, in Brooklyn, NY, he was the son of the late William E. Kratzke and June W. Kratzke.

Alan served in the U.S Army during the Vietnam war. He later worked for Union College as a custodian for 34 years. During his time at Union College, he worked at Messa Hockey rink and drove the zamboni. He loved spoiling his beloved dog Melanie (his little Hunny). In his spare time he loved his music, whether it was listening to his records/CDs, sharing his knowledge of songs and artists, or making CDs/cassettes for his friends and family. He was so proud of his incredibly huge collection of record albums and loved showing them off.

He was a DJ for many years at Union College radio station. He was in an acapella group in the 60s called the Tymetones. His group was the closing act of the worlds fair. The group broke up when they were all drafted to Vietnam. They reunited at his wedding and formed another group called The Reunited with this best friends from high school, Danny, Nicky and Jimmy. They recorded a record before the group separated to start their families.

He was married to his loving and devoted wife Nanette for 47 years.

Whether he was telling jokes, showing off his dance moves, or his unending humor he always brought joy to everyone around him. He will forever be remembered as the most kind, loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

He is survived by son Alan Kratzke Jr and his wife Lisa of Schenectady, NY, daughter Laura VanDenburgh and her husband Michael of Rotterdam Junction, NY, sister June Engel and her husband Rob from Manaplan, New Jersey, four grandchildren: Kristina, Alaesia, Riley and Valencia, 8 nephews and nieces, and 15 great-nephews and nieces.

He was predeceased by sister Karen Sclafani and her husband Gus of Staten Island and brother William Kratzke of Schenectady, NY.

Family and friends may call, Monday March 31, 2025 from 10am to 12pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Albany, New York. Burial services will follow at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery for 2:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Community Hospice in his name. Make checks payable to The Community Hospice and send to: The Community Hospice Foundation 310 S. Manning Blvd. Albany, NY 12208. Or donations can be made only at Communityhospice.org.