LATHAM – Vincent J. Muraski Sr., 88, of Latham, passed away after a long illness on March 19, 2009 the feast of his patron saint, St. Joseph.
Born in Albany, he was the son of the late John and Elizabeth Muraski Czwakiel. Staff Sgt. Muraski proudly served his country during WWII and was recognized for his heroism overseas. Vince was a member of D-Day+5 and was awarded two Silver Stars, two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars. His bravery was well documented.
Vincent was employed by Normanskill Dairy and then worked for the US Postal Service in Latham until his retirement at the age of 65. In his younger days, Vince was considered among the best golfers in the area and won many championships. When he went blind at the age of 71, he continued to play golf with the Capital District Blind Golfers League.
He was an active member of Our Lady of Assumption Church and a member of the Maranatha Prayer group and the OLA 55ers. He was a member of the St. Pius Pep group, Knights of Columbus 3rd Degree #3394, VFW Post #671783, Joseph P. Zaloga American Legion Post, Military of the Purple Heart #5303, Colonie Elks #2192 and Albany Polish American Citizens Club #1143.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Rita DiDonna Muraski, his loving son, Vincent J. Muraski Jr., and his siblings Frank and Michael Purzycki, Stanley, Joseph and Charles Muraski, Stella Patricelli and Jessie Crisafulli.
Vince is survived by his loving daughter, Deborah (John) Morgiewicz and daughter in law Susan (Jack) McGaughnea; his sister Catherine (John) Sasso and his grandchildren Michelle (Craig) Mulligan, Joseph (Julie) Muraski, Riele Morgiewicz (Jason DiMarino),
Megan McGaughnea, Carrian Morgiewicz and Sean McGaughnea. Great grandfather of Vincent Joseph and Alesandra Muraski, John Morgiewicz DiMarino and Meaghan Mulligan. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank all those associated with Vince's care including VA Hospital ER staff, VA Adult Day Care Center staff, Millview Assisted Living, Resurrection Nursing Home, and Rensselaer Hospice whose love and support have been most valuable.
Funeral services will be Monday morning at 9:30 at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd. Colonie (Rt. 155-south of Central Ave) then to Our Lady of Assumption Church, Latham at 10:30 where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Calling hours will be Sunday from 3 to 6 pm at the funeral home. Interment will be in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Capital District Blind Golfers Association, c/o Michael Corso 36 Journey Lane, Glenmont, NY 12077. To leave a special message for the family online, visit NewcomerAlbany.com