Dennis F. McCarthy

Colonie - Dennis “Frank” McCarthy, 88, of Merrill Street passed away peacefully, Saturday, August 31, 2019 at his home.

Born November 25, 1930, he was the son of Frank E. and Elizabeth (McManus) McCarthy. Dennis was born and raised in Watervliet, NY. He was a 1949 graduate of Watervliet High School. After graduation, he then worked at the family business, McCarthy’s Beer Garden. He enlisted and served in the US Navy from 1950-1954, aboard the LST-1071 Landing craft vessel, stationed at Little Creek, VA.

On September 1, 1952, Dennis married the love of his life, Jean Marie Peters, at St. Patrick’s Church in Watervliet. Upon honorable discharge from the Navy, Dennis enrolled at Siena College where he earned a B.A., graduating in 1958. In 1962, he completed his Masters Degree from SUNY Albany. Later, Dennis earned his NYS certification in Secondary School Administration and Special Education from SUNY. Dennis began his career in education as a schoolteacher at Shenendehowa School District. After a few years, he accepted a position with South Colonie Central School District at the hgh school in the Social Studies Department. He also taught at Lisha Kill and Sand Creek Schools. In addition to teaching, Dennis served as Vice Principal at both Vincentian Institute and Lisha Kill serving the Freshman class. He retired from South Colonie Central School District after more than 30 years of service.  Dennis was a coach for the South Colonie Freshman football team. He was instrumental in founding the Kiwanis Key Club at the High School. He was an active member of the South Colonie Teachers’ Association at one point serving as President.

In retirement, Dennis continued his love of playing golf. Physical fitness was a lifetime devotion.  He was a regular at the Ciccotti Center where swam laps, worked out and lifted weights every dayHe was a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Watervliet, a lifetime member of the VFW, and a past member of the Colonie Elks, St. George’s Society, and the Knights of Columbus. In addition to his parents, Dennis is pre-deceased by his son Francis H. McCarthy (2014), a son-in-law Donald G. Safranec, and a brother and sister in law Edward J. and Peggy Rourke McCarthy.

He leaves his loving and devoted wife of 67 years, Jean Marie McCarthy of Colonie; daughters: Catherine E. McCarthy of Virginia Beach, VA; Denise M. Safranec (fiancé Joel Obuchowski) of Loudonville, and Margaret Ann “Peggy” McCarthy-Hughes of Fredericksburg, VA; grandchildren: Rachel Safranec, Adam Safranec (Amy Mason), Dennis (Rebecca) and Jay Hughes, and Jeanette Ashley Schofield; great-grandchildren: Caleb and Logan Hughes; sister Madeline Kilcullen of Watervliet; several nieces and nephews including his special niece Deborah McCarthy and longtime family friend Gail Traver of Colonie.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 am Friday, September 6 at St. Clare’s Church, 1947 Central Ave, Colonie. Burial will be at Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. Calling hours will be held from 4:00pm to 7:00pm, Thursday, Sept 5 at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave, Colonie.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Dennis’ name to the Albany Community Hospice, 310 S. Manning Blvd Albany, NY 12208 or the Church of St. Clare’s. 

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