Joseph F. Crook

Joseph F. Crook, passed away peacefully on Thursday November 22, 2012 with his family by his side following a long illness. Despite multiple medical setbacks, Joe's greatest wish was to remain in the home he had built and this was fulfilled.

Joe was born in Albany, September 17, 1924, son of the late Editha A. Crook and Joseph B. Crook. He is also predeceased by his cherished wife of 63 years Carol (Hanrahan) Crook. He was a graduate of the Vincentian Institute, attended Siena College and was a lifelong learner and advocate of higher education.

Joe worked for the New York State Division of the Budget for 36 years rising through the competitive ranks to the position of Deputy Chief Budget Examiner. Subsequently, he was appointed by the Governor to serve as the Executive Director of the Facilities Development Corporation of the State of New York. He was recognized for distinguished service throughout his career and received the prestigious Alfred E. Smith Award in 1976.

Joe was a talented craftsman whose skills and expertise had no bounds. His comfortable home and innovative projects were a lifelong testament to his many talents and creativity. He was a lifelong parishioner of All Saints Catholic Church working on buildings and grounds and was a choir member for over 30 years.

Father, grandfather, great grandfather and a mentor to many, he is survived by his three sons: Dr. Michael (Tina) of Glens Falls, NY Mark (Liz) of Farmington, CT and Kevin (Linda) of Yardley, PA; brother-in-law Edward Hanrahan, sister-in-law Ruth Shannon, and his beloved cousin Mary Ellis and husband Thomas. Joe's love and kindness will be greatly missed by his seven wonderful grandchildren: Joseph (Jill), Michele, Brian, Brendan, Jeffrey, Robert and Alexander, and great grandson Charles Joseph, as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday at 9 a.m. at All Saints Catholic Church (formerly St. Margaret Mary's), Albany. Calling hours will be Monday from 4 to 8 p.m at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie. Interment will follow the Mass at St. Agnes Cemetery in Menands. Memorial contributions may be made to the Glens Falls Hospital Foundation 126 South Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801 or to All Saints Catholic Church, 1168 Western Ave. Albany, NY 12203 in Joe's memory.