Lawrence Bruno Czech, known to his loved ones as Larry, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2024, at the age of 86 with his wife and son by his side. He was born on July 21, 1937, in Amsterdam, NY, to Barbara and Bruno Czech. Larry was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Larry is survived by his wife of 57 years Barbara Czech, his son Christopher ( Elizabeth ) Czech, his sister Catherine Sefton, his brother Jerome Czech, his granddaughter Charlotte Czech, as well as his niece, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Barbara and Bruno Czech, and his brothers Terrance Czech and Gregory Czech.

Larry attended St. Stanislaus School for his primary education and later graduated from Wilbur Lynch High School. He furthered his education at SUNY Albany earning a BS and MS in physics. Larry continued his education taking classes at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory and United States Army Chemical School specializing in military Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear defense.

Larry retired from a long and distinguished career from the New York State Office of Emergency Management, where he specialized in writing emergency plans for the state and conducting training exercises for nuclear power plants.

Larry had a passion for music! Whether stopping by the house, or calling on the phone you were always greeted by the happy sounds of polka music playing in the background. He enjoyed listening to the polka programs on Siena College Radio on Sunday mornings and 24/7 on the Polka Jammer Network. His appreciation went beyond just listening. He played the accordion in a band called The Czech Mates and other local polka bands.

Larry took great pride in his son’s athletic endeavors driving here, there, and everywhere and spending countless nights in hotel rooms to support Chris. He was the parent you could always count on to be at every game and practice as well as a walking rolodex of Dunkin Donuts locations. Larry supported youth hockey and lacrosse in the capital region, serving as a board member for the Capital District Chapter of US Lacrosse, a team manager for several teams, and a regular volunteer at festivals and tournaments.

Larry and Barbara enjoyed cruising to the Caribbean and many exotic ports of call in the years “BC.” Later trading the warm waters of the Caribbean for many family vacations to Maine and Cape Cod.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Friday, February 16th, from 5-7 PM at Daly Funeral Home, 242 McClellan St., Schenectady. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, February 17th, at 9 AM at St. Luke's Church, 1241 State St., Schenectady, followed by interment at Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Larry’s memory to the Polka Jammer Network that filled his home with happiness. Additionally donations can be made in his name to the Post-Polio Health International or BOCA Area Post Polio Group, which provided support and resources to understand his condition and guide his medical treatment throughout his life.