GUILDERLAND — Henry Richard "Dick" Koelling, 81, died peacefully in his sleep on the morning of September 18, 2023.
A resident of Van Rensselaer Manor since 2018, he was born in New York City, grew up in Dunham Hollow, graduated from Virginia Tech (Master of Civil Engineering), moved to Watertown, N.Y., and eventually settled in Guilderland, where he resided with his family for 40 years.
Dick is survived by his wife, Susan Eva of Troy; his brother, Pete of Niskayuna; his son, Henry Richard Jr. of Hillsboro, Ore.; and his grandchildren, Grace, Ember, Oren, and Erez. He was predeceased by his son, Christopher Lawrence.
Dick's greatest passions were caring for his wife and sons, fishing, hunting with his Brittany Spaniels, fly-tying, rod building, walking in the Pine Bush, hiking, photography, and wildflower identification. He was a very kind, generous, curious, humble, and intelligent man who was well-loved by his family, colleagues, and neighbors.
Dick retired from the N.Y.S. Department of Environmental Conservation where he worked for over 30 years.
Special thanks are extended to all the compassionate employees at Van Rensselaer Manor and Samaritan Hospital. They kept him safe and comfortable during his final years and weeks.
There will be a small private ceremony in the Hillside Cemetery in West Stephentown.
To leave a special message for the family online please visit NewComerAlbany.com