About
Alan Holmes Obituary
Though he moved often as a child, Alan planted deep roots in Schenectady and Niskayuna with his beloved wife of 54 years, Carol (Osterhout). Family was always at the center of his life, including his sons, Kevin of Niskayuna (wife Jessica), and Gary of Glenville (wife Amy), and his treasured grandchildren, Maggie, Charlie, and Riley, who brought him endless joy. He also shared a close and meaningful bond with his sister-in-law, Janet Osterhout, and his nephew, Brian Osterhout and family.
The family camp on Great Sacandaga Lake was Alan's peaceful place and a source of joy throughout his life. A graduate of Hartwick College, Alan approached his professional life with curiosity and commitment. Work was never just a job to him. From Mohawk National Bank to General Electric, Siemens Power Technologies, and Union Graduate College, he built not only a career but lasting friendships.
Music filled his life as well. A devoted clarinetist, Alan spent over 30 years with the Music Company Orchestra. His faith and fellowship were central to his life at the Niskayuna Reformed Church, where he served as deacon, elder, consistory member, and sang proudly as a tenor in the choir.
He was predeceased by his parents, David and Vera Holmes; his brother-in-law, Bruce Osterhout; and many beloved springer spaniels and golden retrievers.
All are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life on January 10, 2026, at 11 AM at the Niskayuna Reformed Church, 3041 Troy-Schenectady Road, Niskayuna, NY 12309, followed by a reception.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Niskayuna Reformed Church 3041 Troy-Schenectady RdNiskyuna NY 12309
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Kathy Stein
January 14, 2026
I was saddened by the news of Alan´s passing. My deepest condolences to Carol and the family. I have great memories of serving on consistory and being a counter with him. He will be missed but is at peace with God, full of His love. May the love you have for Alan and his memories comfort you in this difficult time.
Marie Miller
January 10, 2026
May your memory be a blessing and perpetual light shine upon you, Alan.
Your friends and family are all the richer for their knowing you. Rest easy now.
Patty A Bradshaw
January 10, 2026
Carol and family, I was deeply saddened to hear about Al´s death. His obituary was beautifully written. I´m so happy I had the honor and pleasure of knowing Al through you Carol. He was a very special man and will be missed by many, including myself. Sending love and hugs.
Patty Bradshaw and Tom.
Dennis and Lynne Flanagan
January 9, 2026
Dear Carol and family,
So sorry to hear about Alan.
It´s been quite awhile since we´ve seen him, but always a joy when we did, not to mention Carol. We go way back to our son Kevin and Gary playing soccer.
Thinking of you through this sad time, but going ahead with fond memories.
Lynne and Dennis Flanagan
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Lynne Connelly
January 8, 2026
To the Holmes Family,
I am so sad to hear of Alan´s passing. I worked with him at UGC. He was always so friendly, and helpful. We would have chats about Hartwick College and the lake life. So sorry for your loss. Sending thoughts and prayers. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Lynne Connelly
Tammy
January 6, 2026
I am so sad to hear of Alan´s passing. I worked with him at UGC. It seems like just yesterday, but was more than a decade ago. He was always quick to chat-so friendly, and helpful. My condolences to the whole family on this loss.
Tammy Curtis
Debbie
January 6, 2026
Dear Holmes Family,
I worked with Alan at UGC and he always had a story about his family and the lake. So sorry for your loss. Sending thoughts and prayers.
Debbie Catharine
Diane Trzaskos
January 5, 2026
I worked with Alan at UGC, always very pleasant and personable! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. May he rest in peace. Diane Trzaskos
Erin Callahan Wheeler
January 5, 2026
Holmes Family,
I was so sad to hear of Alan's passing this morning. We worked together for years at Union Graduate College. He always had a smile, a solution, and a story about his days at the lake! Our UGC group was definitely a family, and it's tough to lose another member of that close-knit group. Take care,
Erin Callahan Wheeler
Kristen Eldred Curtin
December 31, 2025
Sending love and condolences to the entire Holmes family. Alan was a dear friend to my parents, Lyle and Eileen Eldred, and they will miss him terribly. Alan was a pillar of the niskayuna community and a wonderfully familiar and friendly face and strong voice in the Niskayuna Reformed Church choir when we came home for holiday visits. Much love, Kristen Eldred Curtin
John Moak
December 30, 2025
May you rest in eternal peace, my friend. You graced your family and friends with perseverance, patience, kindness, and sincerity. Walk with God, and know you are loved.
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242 McClellan Street, Schenectady, NY 12304
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