Risa Skerker

SKERKER Albany, New York Risa Skerker, 55, of Albany, NY, died March 16, 2010 with her family by her side. Her final days were spent surrounded by those who loved her. She is survived by her parents, Bert and Lee Lieberman of Delray Beach FL, formerly of Albany, husband Hugh, daughters Elyse (Philadelphia) and Betsy (Albany), sisters Joni Lieberman Basen (Donald Basen), Marcy (Jeff) Weisburgh, Amy Lieberman, and many loving nieces and nephews. Devoted wife, mother, friend -- these are just some of the many attributes of a woman who touched the lives of many, with her infectious smile, and ability to make friends with almost anyone. Some of Risa's favorite activities were attending jewelry classes at Gilda's Club, going out to dinner, shopping, and eating Betsy's amazing cooking. Despite the fact that Risa lived with cancer, she did not let it affect her daily life. She persevered by putting others before her own wants and needs. She was a regular volunteer with The Friendship Circle, even when she was not feeling well. In her last days, she did not complain about her own life, but rather only worried about others. Services will be held on Thursday, March 18, 1:30 PM, at Levine Memorial Chapel, 649 Washington Avenue Albany, NY to be followed by interment in the Independent Benevolent Society Cemetery on Fuller Road in Albany. Shivah will be observed by the family at the Community Room in Hawthorne Gardens, 1980 Western Ave., Albany, on Thursday following burial, Friday from 12 noon-5:00 pm, Saturday evening after Shabbat, and Sunday from 12 noon. In addition, Shivah will be observed at the home of Joni and Don, Monday, March 22 and Tuesday, March 23, from 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to UOTS Abigail #3, PO Box 8410 Albany, NY 12208 or Gilda's Club, One Penny Lane Latham, NY 12110; or The Friendship Circle, c/o Liba Andrusier, 854 Warren St., Albany NY, 12208. These were all organizations that were near and dear to Risa's heart.