Obituary of Harry Van Patten

Schenectady - Harry Edward Van Patten of Punta Gorda, Florida, formerly of Schenectady, NY, passed away September 11, 2013. He was born on August 9, 1925, in Pennsylvania to Robert Van Patten and Irene Peck, later growing up in Johnstown, NY. Harry served in the Navy during World War II as a diver and later was a member of the Air Force and the Air National Guard. Harry was an accomplished auto mechanic for most of his life and later was a school bus driver before he finally retired. Harry was a member of the VFW Post 357 in Schenectady, NY for many years and could usually be found in the kitchen helping out. Harry was always helping his friends, neighbors and family members and spent most of his life caring for his wife, Shirley. Harry was passionate about his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and would always drop everything at a moment's notice to be available to them. Harry was predeceased by his son, Frank and also lost his wife, Shirley, not long ago. He is survived by his daughter, Ellen Wagner; son-in-law, Aaron Wagner; and his youngest son, Richard Van Patten; daughter-in-law, Claudia Rolfe; also his grandchildren, Angela Spink (Kenneth Spink). Gregory Horlbeck (Janeen Horlbeck), Tammy Lynn Van Patten, Frank Van Patten, Jr. ( Vicki Nolan); and great-grandchildren, Stephen Mix and Brandi Volins. He is also survived by his brother, David Peck (Nancy Peck) and several nieces and nephews. Funeral service, Wednesday afternoon, 1 p.m. at the Daly Funeral Home, Inc., 242 McClellan St., Schenectady. Calling hours, Tuesday evening, 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be in Park View Cemetery, Schenectady, with military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Rd., Loudonville, NY 12211.