Walter Timofeev

Schenectady – Walter Timofeev, 86, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 17, 2026, in Schenectady.

Walter was born in Poddubye, Russia, in the Pskovsky District of Pskov Oblast. He was affectionately known to family and friends as “Dyadska Volodska.”

Walter worked in construction and as a general laborer with Local 190 in Albany. He was also a devoted member and pillar of the church community at Nativity of the Most Holy Mother of God Church, generously supporting and participating in projects related to the building and care of the church.

Walter was immensely proud of his family and his Russian heritage. He took special pride in his football-playing nephews, affectionately known as “The Russian Front,” as well as his beautiful nieces. He treasured family history and spent years collecting photographs and stories so that future generations would understand the family’s legacy, including their survival through the difficult years immediately following World War II and the story of how they eventually made their way to this country.

Walter also knew how to enjoy life. One of his most recognizable sayings was an enthusiastic “Yaba-Daba-Doo!” He looked forward to the annual family Super Bowl party, where he could always be counted on to cheer against the Patriots, despite the fact that his oldest nephew once played for them. It became part of the fun and part of Walter.

He appreciated a strong handshake, a good drink or two, and singing Russian songs with his brother-in-law, affectionately known as Papa Joe. Walter loved being surrounded by family, and the stories, laughter, traditions, and memories that came with those gatherings.

Walter is survived by his sister, Irina Jarostchuk. He never married and had no children of his own, but he was a beloved uncle to six nieces and nephews: his sister Irina’s four children, Ilia Jarostchuk, Basil Jarostchuk, Alexander Jarostchuk, and Anya (Jarostchuk) Romanowski; and his brother Wasily’s two children, Andrew Timofeev and Nadia (Timofeev) Solovieff.

Walter also had a special place in his heart for the parish youth, and they loved him dearly in return.

Funeral services will be held Thursday morning at 10:30 a.m. at Nativity of the Most Holy Mother of God Church, 617 Sand Creek Road, Colonie. Visitation will be held at the church on Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Interment will take place at Holy Trinity Monastery Cemetery in Jordanville, New York.