Richard P. Baestlein

Richard P. Baestlein, 91, entered into eternal rest on March 21, 2026, at Shaker Place Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

Born in Schenectady on June 22, 1934, and raised in Albany, he was the son of the late Hugo V. and Lucy (Hartung) Baestlein.

He attended Albany High School and left before graduating to join the US Army. He was stationed at Fort Lewis, in Washington state, where he tested large steam turbines. He earned his GED while at Fort Lewis. Upon discharge, he joined his older brother in a plumbing and heating supply business as a manufacturer's rep. After a few years, he decided to go into business for himself, and went on to build a very successful plumbing and heating supply business, serving the entire state of New York. Being on the road so much, he realized he needed to hire a secretary to handle the home office. He reached out to Albany High School to ask for three of their best senior secretarial students whom he could interview for the job. Of those three candidates, the one he chose would years later become his wife.

Richard was an avid gun enthusiast since his teen years. He had an extensive collection of small and large firearms. He was a proud member of the NRA.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Madeline D. (Potrzuski) Baestlein, and his brother William R. Baestlein, alone with three sisters-in-law and a brother-in-law. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and a number of cousins in Germany.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother High C. Beastlein.

The family would like to acknowledge the staff at Shaker Place for their dedication in caring for Richard. We also would like to thank The Community Hospice for their gentle care in Richard's final days. 

Visitation will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026 from 11:00 am - 12:30 pm, at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Albany NY. A short prayer service of Christian Burial will begin at 12:30pm. Interment will follow at Holy Spirit Cemetery, Glenmont.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider donations in Richard's name to Holy Spirit Cemetery or The Community Hospice.