Michael W. Townsend

Michael W. Townsend passed way peacefully at Samaritan Hospital on the afternoon of Friday, July 26th after battling heart conditions as well as cancer.

Michael was born on August 31, 1949 to Robert Townsend and Veronica (June) Townsend (Anast). He had nine brothers and sisters, predeceased by Robert(Joe) Townsend and John(Jackie) Townsend, and survived by Rosemary Rockenstyre, JeanAnne Lansburg, William Townsend, Douglas Townsend, Mark Townsend, Peter Townsend, and Paul Townsend.

Michael proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. during the Vietnam War. After serving his country Michael married Mary Lou (Rappazzo) Townsend in 1972. Michael and Mary Lou were married for 46 years at the time of his passing, and they had a son Michael.

Michael retired from Fort Orange Press after 40 years of service. Michael was also very active in the Albany community by volunteering for many years with the local Little League(Whitehall Little League). He started out by coaching Little League baseball and then became a member of the Little League board. Michael also started the first local Handicap Little League for children with disabilities.

Michael was survived by his wife of 46 years, his son and daughter in-law Lindsey Townsend(Searles), and his three grandchildren Ethan, Myles, and Sophia.

Calling hours will be held at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd, Colonie, NY on Wednesday July 31st from 5-8pm. A funeral service will follow on Thursday, August 1st at 11:00am with burial services immediately following at Graceland Cemetery in Albany, NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the American Heart Association or St. Jude Childern's Hospital in his honor