George E. Mears, Ii

Albany- George E. Mears II, age 81, passed away peacefully on Sunday April, 16, 2023, at Saint Joseph's Rehabilitation and Residence in Portland, ME. He was born April 19, 1941, in Albany, NY. George was a graduate of Albany High School ('59). He married Sheila on April 28, 1962 in Sylvan Beach, NY. He worked at various NYS agencies and retired from the NYS Teachers Retirement System.


George was a long-time member of the North Bethlehem FD and Elmwood Park Fire District. He served in many roles including as Assistant Chief for several years, and later as a Commissioner of the Fire District. George was also a past president of the Hudson Mohawk Volunteer Firefighters Association.


George loved to travel with his wife and friends. He visited all 50 states and several countries on multiple continents. He went on 38 cruises over the years. He had the uncanny ability to look at a map, or drive to a place once, and be able to recall it in detail on future trips or conversations. He loved history and would spend hours discussing it with his grandson Aaron. George also loved hunting and fondly remembered his trip to the Yukon with friends. He helped coach many ballgames for his kids over the years.

He was grateful to have reconnected with long lost siblings in his later years, bringing him a sense of belonging to a big family that he always wished for. Many thanks to all of his caregivers over the years for their kindness, and deep gratitude and love to all his family and friends who helped him after the passing of his wife of 60 years.

He is survived by his children, PJ (Andi) and Jeff (Joyalle); grandchildren, Aaron and Grace; brother-in-law Michael (Debbie); nephew Bobby (Amanda), niece Rachael; siblings Bob Wiltsie (Irene); Theresa DuPree (Keith); Gordon Etchison (Betty); Margaret Kelly (Dwayne) and many lifelong friends. He was predeceased by his wife Sheila; infant daughter Amy; mother Ethel Watkins, and father Geoffrey Mears.

Calling hours will be held at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd, Colonie, NY 12205 on Monday, April 24, 2023 from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. A funeral service will follow the calling hours, and burial will take place at Graceland Cemetery on Delaware Avenue following the service. Family and friends are invited back to the North Bethlehem Fire Department, 589 Russell Road following the burial service.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in George's name to the North Bethlehem Fire Dept, 589 Russell Road, Albany 12203.