Barbara Pukis

Guilderland – Barbara K. Pukis, 71, passed away peacefully at home where she wanted to be, surrounded and cared for by her loving family. Born in Albany she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Katherine Davidson.

Barbara loved and lived life to the fullest. She always had a smile and a laugh for everyone, and always found the good in everyone she met. She placed a strong value on education, and instilled this value in her children and grandchildren. She obtained her Associate's Degree from Hudson Valley Community College. Barbara always credited her family for letting her pursue her career with The New York State Department of Health, where she was employed for years. Barbara also loved to travel with her family, and she especially loved planning the trips, and helping others with their travel plans. It all began with the family trips to Wildwood, N.J., and then grew to vacations in Aruba, Florida, and countless cruises. She was also a member of the Monday Lunch Ladies. Barbara's greatest accomplishment in life was instilling the importance of family in her children and grandchildren.

Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 47 years E. Frank Pukis, her adoring children; Debra (Ron) Rothaupt, Brian (Kimberly), and her grandchildren; Jack, Daniel, and Cody Rothaupt. Barbara is also survived by her siblings; Joseph (Peggy) Davidson, Richard (Alice) Davidson, and Susan Allen, her cousins; Mary Anne (Thomas) Murphy, Eileen Bergen, Joseph Sharkey, and her dear friend Connie Plummer. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and special friends that she loved very much. Barbara is predeceased by her special aunt Mary Cooke.

Contributions may be made in Barbara's name to The Community Hospice of Albany, 445 New Karner Rd. Albany, NY 12205. The family would like to send a special thanks to Dr. Timmons, Lisa Armao, and the Three Nolan Riddle nursing station at St. Peter's Hospital for their compassionate care of Barbara throughout her illness.

Funeral services for Barbara will be Friday November 1st at 10 a.m. at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd. Calling hours will be on Thursday from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery.