Wayne J. Hildenbrandt

Wayne J. Hildenbrandt, 64, of Schenectady, NY, passed away peacefully at home with his loving family by his side on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

Born on September 26, 1961, in Albany, NY, Wayne was the son of Lois Hildenbrandt and the late Joseph Hildenbrandt.

Wayne graduated from Colonie Central High School and began his career at Orange Motors in Albany, where his lifelong love of cars first took root. His car journey continued, as he devoted many years to Metro Ford & Custom Auto Radio. He later spent 20 years working in parts sales at Peterbilt Trucking Company.

In 1978, Wayne met the love of his life, Melissa. They shared 31 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2014. Their love and devotion to one another never faded and remained a constant throughout his life.

Wayne found joy in the simple things. He loved attending car shows and toy auctions, traveling, collecting die-cast cars, relaxing in his favorite recliner, and enjoying a good cheeseburger. He also enjoyed spending time at the shooting range with his daughter. More than anything, Wayne cherished being with his family. Some of his favorite moments were long drives with his daughter, listening to 80's music with no particular destination—just enjoying the time together. He would go to Lebanon Valley and drag racing with his son Christopher, and always going on fun adventures with his grandchildren.

Wayne will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Lois Hildenbrandt; his children, Christopher Hildenbrandt and Kayla Hildenbrandt (Gregory Barnes Jr.); his beloved grandchildren, Christine and Raymond Hildenbrandt, Nyana Hoose, and Ah'viann Briffault; his brother, Joseph Hildenbrandt; his sister, Tina Hildenbrandt; and his close family friends, Joseph Galligan Sowers and Michael J. Mearns. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his father, Joseph Hildenbrandt, Wayne was predeceased by his beloved wife, Melissa J. (Gordon) Hildenbrandt, and his brother, Bruce Hildenbrandt.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Monday, August 10, 2026, from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, with a Funeral Service to begin at 1:00 pm at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Albany NY 12205. Interment will follow at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, 303 Sand Creek Rd, Albany, NY 12205.