J. Karl Herchenroder

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Albany - J. Karl Herchenroder, 88, of West Albany, NY, died on July 28, 2024. He was the son of the late James and Jean Karl Herchenroder.

Karl served for four years in the U.S. Navy and during that time was an engineman on the USS Otterstetter DE-244. Following his service, he worked for Cummins for over 40 years, starting as a mechanic and working his way up to Regional Sales Manager. Karl was a member of the West Albany Fire Department since 1957 serving as President in 1962 and then as Secretary for many years, receiving the Fireman of the Year award in 1981. He was also a volunteer on the USS Slater DE-766 since 1998, working on the ship’s engines and generators, as well as making out of state trips to salvage parts from ship graveyards, and received an award for Volunteer of the Year in 2020. He was also a long-time member of the Elks Club and the American Legion. Karl dedicated his time to family and community for many years, volunteering for both the Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts, and assisting family and friends with various projects. Karl enjoyed seafood, Coors Light, playing poker, and delivering a good joke.

Karl is survived by his wife of nearly 68 years Loretta Nunziato Herchenroder of West Albany; two sons, Steven (Cathleen) Herchenroder of New Hampshire, Bruce (Lisa) Herchenroder of Niskayuna, and two daughters, Laurie (William) Dingmon of Greenfield Center, and Lynn(Scott) Low of New Hampshire; four grandchildren, Kyle Dingmon, Courtney Dingmon, Ian Low, and Elizabeth Low; one sister, Jean Frederick of Schenectady, and two brothers Earl Herchenroder of Waterford, and James (Judie) Herchenroder of Mayfield.

Karl was predeceased by his brothers Daniel (Marlene) Herchenroder, Russell “Tim” (Nancy) Herchenroder, Michael Herchenroder, and sister-in-law Patricia Herchenroder.

Friends may call at New Comer Cremations & Funerals,181 Troy-Schenectady Road Watervliet on Thursday, August 1, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Christ Our Light Church 1 Maria Drive Loudonville, NY on Friday, August 2, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. with procession immediately following to St. Agnes Cemetery in Menands .

Memorial contributions shall may be made to USS Slater, PO Box 1926, Albany, NY 12201 and/or West Albany Fire Dept., 113 Sand Creek Rd., Albany, NY 12205.

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