John W. Mullen, 78 yrs old, formerly of Albany, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, at Samaritan Hospital, Troy, New York, on Friday evening, December 8, 2023. Born in Albany, NY, he was the son of the late Catherine and Walter J. Mullen.
After High school he was drafted into the United States Army in 1965. He served a year in Vietnam as a Supplies Specialist and was discharged in 1967. After his time in Vietnam he met Donna Dunham while working for New York State. They were married on June 7, 1969. Their chance meeting at work evolved into a devoted and lifelong love.
For 38 years John worked for New York State's Department of Public Services. Once he retired, he worked part-time for the state's Board for Nursing and the state's Professional Assistance Committee.
John was a talented woodworker. His favorite things to craft were wooden toys, from ovens to battleships, for his daughter, nieces, & nephews. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and traveling with his wife, including 13 cruises.
John was also passionate about community service and helping others, especially within the veteran community. He worked with the Disabled American Veterans Organization, the Tri-County Council of Vietnam Veterans, and Daughters of the American Revolution, amongst many others. He was a key advocate for the installation of the Vietnam Memorial built in Troy, New York. His proudest achievements in the field of public service were assisting fellow veterans obtain well deserved recognition of their service and sacrifice. Whether petitioning for medals or working through the Hometown Heroes program, he spent countless hours advocating for veteran friends and strangers alike. He truly took joy in helping people.
John is survived by his daughter, Lisa Mullen-Powers (Gerard), two Sisters Elizabeth A. Mullen-Taylor, of Troy, Mary Kay Mullen-Albert (William) of Albany, and his beloved dog Cindy Mullen.
A visitation will be held on Monday December 18th from 10am-12pm with a service to follow at 12pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd Colonie.
Interment immediately following the service in the Gerald B.H. Solomon National Cemetery.