Richard M. Junge

Richard M. Junge, age 94, died on January 1st from pneumonia as a consequence of Parkinson's disease. He had recently moved from Schenectady, NY to the home of his son and daughter-in-law, who were present by his side. Dick enjoyed outdoor activities throughout his life and shared his love of sailing, camping, canoeing, and skiing with his wife and children. Mountain climbs in the High Peaks of the Adirondacks, near the family camp in Keene, were a regular family undertaking and he reveled in the panoramic views from each peak. Educated as a mechanical engineer, Dick was attentive to bettering his world through design and continual improvement. In the household, this included everything from custom-made car top carriers to specialized displays for his wife's hand woven art. Larger projects included a 50 foot suspension walking bridge over a mountain brook and a hilltop cabin with stone fireplace. Born in Ridgewood, NJ, Dick was a 1943 graduate of Cornell University. Following his service in the Army Air Force, he attended MIT and received a Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1947. After three years employment at Clark Brothers in Olean, NY, he joined the GE Gas Turbine Department in 1950, moving his family to Schenectady. His career at General Electric spanned 33 years, until his retirement in 1983. Dick was predeceased by his wife, Julia Brettle Junge, in 2005 after 60 years of marriage; and his daughter, Susan Junge. Survivors include his loving companion of 10 years, Miriam Butzel; son, Richard Junge; daughter, Margaret Junge; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. According to his wishes, there will be no memorial service, although a family gathering will be held in the warmer months. Memorial contributions may be made to The First Unitarian Society, your local hospice, or charity of choice.