Robert F. Shovah

Robert F. Shovah, 71, passed away after a long bout of illnesses on Monday, October 7, 2024. Bob was the son of the late Frederick and Gertrude Shovah. 

Bob was the devoted husband to Denise Nolan Shovah. He is also survived by his children Jennifer (Kevin) Douglas and Eric (Heather) Shovah. His grandchildren Alex Douglas, Harper Shovah and Vivienne Shovah. Other surviving family include Denise’s brothers Joseph (Susan) Nolan, Greg Nolan, sister-in-law Sandra Nolan and his brothers Joseph Shovah and Kevin Shovah. He was preceded by his brother Fredrick Shovah and his brother in law John Nolan. 

Bob was a man of deep faith, having been ordained a deacon on October 29, 2011 at the Polish National Catholic Church. For the last 11 years, Bob was an active member of Grace Fellowship Church in Latham where he was a member of the pastoral care team and their various prayer ministries. He loved studying the Bible, both by himself as well as leading study groups. Among his ministries and religious journey, he had a fondness and devotion to working with those experiencing homelessness, the incarcerated, and those who were afflicted with poverty or illness. He volunteered at the Capital City Rescue Mission, was engaged in street-based ministry, and collected and distributed clothing to those in need. Bob had the ability to meet anyone in the moment of need without judgment and provide love and support. 

One of Bob’s greatest joys was serving as Papa to his grandkids - feeding bottles, pushing carriages, clapping at performances, and displaying their artwork. He treasured many of the simple things in life alongside his wife Denise - a daily walk, trips to Cape Cod, a nice meal with family, and acing the Jeopardy board. 

Bob lived a life of service - working as a public servant with a career in the post office and as a teaching assistant at Heatly School, serving his community as a coach and member of the parent-teacher organization, serving his family with love and devotion, and faithful serving the church and his Lord. Bob will be remembered through his acts of service, his kindness, his quick-wit, and sense of humor. 

There will be a memorial visitation at New Comer Cremations & Funerals at 181 Troy-Schenectady Road, Watervliet, NY 12189 on Sunday October 13, 2024 from 10:00am to 1:00pm. There will be a prayer at 1:00pm. A graveside service will be celebrated at Memory Gardens Cemetery on 983 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Albany, NY 12205 on Monday October 14, 2024 at 11:00am. 

In honor of staff’s dedication and service, donations in lieu of flowers can be given to The Sunshine Fund at Baptist Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 297 N. Ballston Ave., Scotia, NY 12302 Attn: Development Office.

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