Raymond Opel

SCHENECTADY – Raymond Opel, 80, passed away on Friday, April 18, 2014 at St. Peter's Hospice Inn after a long battle with cancer. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, he was the only surviving child of 9 children of the late Edward and Nellie Opel.

Raymond was honorably discharged from the United States Army for his service during the Korean War. He moved to Schenectady after the Korean War to take the hand of Janet Reisinger, his bride of 42 years, until her death on March 29, 1996. Raymond later met his companion of 15 years, Jeannette Bradshaw of Scotia.

Raymond worked for United State Plywood and then General Electric Steam Turbine Division for 27 years until his retirement. Anyone who knew Ray knew he was a master woodcarver. He would spend countless hours in his woodshop perfecting his many talents.

Raymond was preceded in death by his eldest son Patrick R. Opel only thirteen days prior to his death.

He will be missed by his children Cynthia (Michael) Panunzio of Clifton Park, Michael (Paula) Opel of Clifton Park, and Brian (Barbara) Opel of Rotterdam; daughter-in-law Paula Opel of Rotterdam; grandchildren Brandon Opel of Birmingham, AL, Erin (Josh) Williams of Colorado Springs, CO, Kara Opel of Clifton Park, and Ashleigh Panunzio of San Diego, CA, and several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend their appreciation to the staff of Community Hospice of Schenectady and St. Peter's Hospice Inn. A Special "Thank You" to Dr. John Pezzulo for being a true caring physician.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective Foundation, 53 Maple Avenue, Scotia, NY 12302 or Community Hospice of Schenectady, 1411 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12308 in Ray's name.