Kathleen R. Pooler

Kathleen R. Pooler, 75, of Niskayuna, NY died Thursday, May 5, 2022 at Albany Medical Center following a long illness. Kathy was born in Niskayuna, NY on July 2, 1946, to Robert and Kathryn (DiCerbo) Pease.

She married the man of her dreams, Wayne Pooler in 2001 and they lived peacefully on a farm in Amsterdam until 2019.

Kathy had an accomplished career in the healthcare field which spanned 34 years caring for patients in different capacities, including ER nursing, Director of Nursing, Health Education Consultant and as Nurse Practitioner. She taught nursing at both Hartwick College and Maria College. Kathy earned her Nursing Degree from the St Joseph's Hospital School of Nursing in Elmira in 1967, Masters of Nursing Degree from Syracuse University in 1976, and her Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate from Binghamton University in 1996.

Kathy was fiercely independent and always up for an adventure. She inspired her family with her resilience and will to live. She displayed great courage in the face of adversity, and put a priority on faith, family, and friends.

She was a 25-year cancer survivor and required dialysis for the past 8 years. During this time, she received topnotch care from wonderful nurses, doctors and staff at the Fresenius Clinics in Amsterdam and Niskayuna. Despite her physical challenges, her positive attitude was contagious and she was known for her kind spirit, beautiful smile, wisdom and strength.

Upon retirement she embarked on a new adventure as an author, publishing two memoirs. Through this experience she was able to connect with like-minded authors throughout the world to share her story and created lifelong friendships in the writing community.

The family wishes to thank the Kingsway Home Health Service Aides who provided wonderful care and peace of mind as her health declined. Many of those who helped her on a daily basis became like family to her.

Kathy was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. The highlight of Kathy's retirement was following her grandchildren's activities. She is predeceased by her loving husband, Wayne Pooler.

Left to cherish her memory daughter, Leigh Ann (David) Gilson of Niskayuna NY, son Brian of Astoria, Queens; brothers Thomas (Carol) Pease of Corning NY, Gary (Patricia) Pease of Corning NY, sister Paula (Jerome) Wozniak of Corning NY; grandchildren, Jacob and Ethan Gilson; several nieces and one nephew.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, May 11, 10 a.m., at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Church, 1803 Union Street in Schenectady. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, May 10, from 5- 7 p.m., at New Comer Cremations and Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, NY. Burial will be in Amsterdam Fairview Cemetery, 272 Steadwell Avenue, Amsterdam NY.

Memorials may be directed in Kathleen's name to the Northeast Kidney Foundation, 501 New Karner Rd, Albany, NY, 12205; https://healthykidneys.org/make-a-gift/.