Richard J. Govel, 80, passed away on Saturday, July 13, 2024.
Born December 1, 1943 in Albany, NY, he was the son of the late Martin and Anna (Kochan) Govel.
Rich graduated from Albany High School and then completed carpenter’s apprentice training. He worked for over 50 years through Carpenters Locals 117, 370, and 291, serving a term as Vice President for Local 117.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Kathleen (Nobles), son Rick, wife Allyson and their children Nicole and Ricky of Morganville, NJ, and son Gary, wife Erin and their children Jacob and Emily of Guilderland, NY. He is also survived by his older brother Stanley and wife Peg, of Pasadena, MD, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters Eleanor and Laurette and brothers Martin and Leonard.
Richard, affectionately known as Pop, found great joy and took exceptional pride in the activities and accomplishments of his four grandchildren. He was a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees and New York Giants. In his younger years, he was a competitive bowler throughout the Capital District, and often shared stories about his appearance on TV Tournament Time. He was an active member and served as an officer of Albany’s Chapter of the Polish American Citizen’s Club. He also enjoyed golfing and trips to the casino.
Visitation will take place on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, from 10:00am – 12:00pm with a Funeral Service to begin at 12:00pm at New Comer Cremations and Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie NY 12205. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Colonie.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org