Joseph Leuschner

Leuschner, Joseph NISKAYUNA Joseph Leuschner, 95, of River Road, died happily at home with his loving family at his side. He was born September 29, 1912 in Jarischau, Germany. He came to America through Ellis Island in 1930 as a young man and made a life in Schenectady. Joe was proud to be an American citizen, and always maintained a close and loving relationship with his family in Germany. He married his first wife, Christine in 1938, and they were blessed with a son, Peter. Joe served his country valiantly during World War II in the Pacific Theatre as an army staff sergeant, and was decorated with a bronze star for bravery behind enemy lines. He was retired from General Electric after 34 years of service as an assembler for the large generator and motor division. Joe was very proud of his work on the turbines that are used at the Hoover Dam and St. Lawrence Seaway. Joe was active in many civic and fraternal organizations including, the Schenectady Turnverin, the German American Club, the PACC, and the Elks. He was a lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church and served as an usher for many decades. After Christine passed away, he met and married Eugenia in 1955. Joe and Jean were doubly blessed when their daughter, Darlene was born. Joe and Jean could always be found dancing or playing cards with their many friends. They enjoyed traveling to visit family in Germany, and loved the warm beaches in N.J. and Fla. He loved gardening and was known for growing "Joe's tomatoes". In later years, he also loved fishing on the beach in N.C. with Darlene, where he was the oldest fisherman on the beach! Joe will always be know as "DADDY" to those who love him because he was both a true "gentleman" and a gentle man in every way, with a huge heart of gold. He enjoyed each day of his life, and was delighted to celebrate his 95th birthday with a large gathing of family and friends at home. Joe was predeceased by his wives, Christine and Eugenia; his son, Peter; and his brothers and sisters in Germany. Survivors include his loving daughter, Darlene Schwarz of Schenectady; many nieces, and nephews both here and in Germany; Deborah Hotaling, P. Donald Bergeron, Karolee Moore, Regina Kunert, and all his beloved ones who called him "daddy". Services will be held Wednesday morning at 10:45 a.m. from the Daly Funeral Home, 242 McClellan Street, then to Zion Lutheran Church, where a Mass will be held at 11:30 a.m. Interment will follow in the family plot at Memory's Garden Cemetery, Colonie. Calling hours to which relatives and friends are invited will be held Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Daly Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made in Joe's memory to the Zion Lutheran Church's Chair Life Fund, 153 Nott Terrace, Schenectady, NY 12308.