Francis Netzer

Castleton – Francis A. "Butch" Netzer, 65, passed away at his residence Wednesday November 27, 2013 with his wife and nephew by his side after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Born in Albany he is the son of the late Henry and Mary Netzer.

Francis was a 1966 graduate of Cardinal McCloskey High School, and later attended HVCC where he was certified in mechanical drawing. He was employed by The New York State Taxation and Finance Department for 36, where he worked as a printer. Francis was a member of the Capital Area Rods, where he enjoyed working on his 1947 Ford pickup truck and going to car shows all over. He was also a member of the Northeastern Woodworkers Association, where he enjoyed working with wood and later learned how to turn. If he wasn't in the garage working on the hot rod, or in the cellar woodworking, he could be found at The Colonie Elks B.P.O.E. #2192. Francis was a proud member of the Elks who loved to work in the kitchen on Friday nights, work the grill at the pavilion, and also worked with the Tuesday night group that did minor repairs to the lodge. Through his hard work and dedication to The Colonie Elks, Francis was named Elk of the Year in 2008-2009.

Francis is survived by his beloved wife Joanne Tiro Netzer of 43 years. In addition to his wife Francis is also survived by his siblings; Margaret Danz, Barbara Netzer, and James Netzer. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Walter Tiro and sister-in-law Louise Lambertsen. Francis also leaves to mourn several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and friends.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of NYOH, The Department of Radiation Oncology at Albany Medical Center, and Sarah and Elizabeth of Rensselaer County Hospice for their extraordinary care of Francis during his battle with lung cancer. Memorial contributions may be made in Francis' name to The Lung Cancer Foundation of America, 15 South Franklin St. New Ulm, MN 56073.

Calling hours for Francis will be Monday December 2nd from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd. A memorial service will follow the calling hours at 7 p.m. Interment will be at Memory Gardens on Thursday December 5th at 11 a.m.