GUILDERLAND - Vincent J. Cordi loved life, family and friends and all seasons nature had to offer. He died at his home in Guilderland on Thursday, August 3, 2017 at 74 years of age.
He was born in Albany November 9, 1942, to the late Vincent D. and Sophie F. (Prusinski) Cordi; growing up and attended school there. On October 6, 1963, he married Grace (DiPace) Cordi. They were married for 53 years with Grace predeceasing him on June 11, 2017.
After graduating from Albany High School, Vince proudly served in the National Guard and was employed by the Times Union for 40 years as a Photo Engraver. He was a member of the Guilderland Democratic Party and a lifelong fan of the New York Giants and New York Yankees. Initially living in Albany, they moved to Guilderland in 1978. He took great pride in his land and house that he personally built with help from family and friends. His home was his castle but everyone who entered was welcomed with a hearty "Eeeks" from Vince. Even passersby on the nearby Thruway were greeted with a "Hello on the highway" over the c.b. radio. Through the years, he worked hard to provide for his family often working additional jobs to support them. Despite this, he still found time to coach his kids baseball and basketball teams and support their other activities.
After his retirement, he relished spending time with his grandchildren and taking them on adventures; which included drives through back roads, picnics and hikes in the woods to see wildlife. He felt closer to God outdoors, whether it be hunting, fishing, yard work, mowing or tending to his garden. He always loved conversing with others and debating all things. He talked points up, down and sideways until he could see all sides of the issue. He loved sharing stories, philosophies and imparting his wisdom on all. He was serious, as well as funny, took pleasure in comedies, a good joke and silly times with children. Never afraid of hard work, there was no task he would not tackle; never giving up until the job was done.
Throughout his illness and his very last days, Vince never complained about anything. The family would like to thank Olivia Berrington, Lori Whiteash and her terrific team of caregivers who helped Vince through his illness over the past year.
Vince is survived by his sons, Vince (Kelly) Cordi and John (Robin) Cordi; his daughter, Sheri (Russ) Tallman; five grandchildren, Nellie and Sophia Cordi, Tristen Cordi; Brandon and Chase Tallman, all of Guilderland. His sister, Fran (Bob) O'Keefe, of Guilderland; many nieces, nephews and cousins, and his cat Smokey.
Calling hours for Vince and Grace will be held Monday, August 7th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd, Colonie. The Parish family of Christ the King Church will gather at 4:30 p.m. for a service of prayer and rememberance. All are welcome. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, August 8th, at 10 a.m. at Christ the King Church, 20 Sumter Ave., Guilderland. Burial will follow in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Colonie.